10 Times Horror Movie Directors Gave INSANE Performances As Actors

Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me serves as a prequel to David Lynch and Mark Frost's Twin Peaks, exploring the last week of Laura Palmer's life. 

The story is darker and more surreal than the series it spawned from, delving further into the origins of the overarching antagonist, an interdimensional force called Bob. Since Fire Walk With Me ramps up the Lynchian style, it's no surprise David Lynch injected himself into the story - as he did in the show itself. Lynch memorably reprises his role as Gordon Cole in the prequel, an FBI agent who's working directly on the Palmer case.

Cole brings a lot of levity to an otherwise grim film, since his deafness compels him to enunciate in an exaggerated manner, leading to humorous misunderstandings. Although Lynch's performance could've been jarring, it accentuates the tension, since his eccentric demeanour contrasts delightfully with the sombre ensemble. 

Sure, Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me could've functioned without Cole, but Lynch's portrayal highlights his talent at balancing extremes, whether it's horror and comedy or absurdity and sincerity.

Even though David Lynch is revered for his writing and directing, there's no doubt his turn as Gordon Cole was a career highlight.