10 Things We Learned From Twin Peaks: The Return Part 9

6. The Torture Of Diane Evans

Cooper Part 9
Showtime

Mr. Cooper is metaphorically sliding letters under Diane's fingernails.

On the plane ride over South Dakota, Diane, again used by the FBI to assist with the ongoing Blue Rose investigation into Dale Cooper, looks at her phone. The message "BLOCKED" appears. Back at the morgue, in a scene common sense would dictate is connected, it is revealed Diane is the recipient of Mr. Cooper's cryptic "AROUND THE DINNER TABLE, THE CONVERSATION IS LIVELY" text message. Dern's Diane at this point shoots an equally puzzling look at the camera. There is apprehension lurking in the expression, for sure. But is there also a hint of knowing? Dern, a master of the craft, again demonstrates why she is perfect for the Twin Peaks universe. She can convey such mystery in her face - to such an extent that it felt in the moment, against all storyline reason, that the night she and "Mr." Cooper shared was more recent than originally thought. As to what the coded message means?

A reference to the Black Lodge meetings above the convenience store? A reference to that last night? It would be foolish to guess at this point; as Lynch himself has urged, it is best to "focus on the donut, not on the hole."

Intriguing scenes and incredible performances make that rather difficult.

Contributor
Contributor

Michael Sidgwick is an editor, writer and podcaster for WhatCulture Wrestling. With over seven years of experience in wrestling analysis, Michael was published in the influential institution that was Power Slam magazine, and specialises in providing insights into All Elite Wrestling - so much so that he wrote a book about the subject. You can order Becoming All Elite: The Rise Of AEW on Amazon. Possessing a deep knowledge also of WWE, WCW, ECW and New Japan Pro Wrestling, Michael’s work has been publicly praised by former AEW World Champions Kenny Omega and MJF, and current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. When he isn’t putting your finger on why things are the way they are in the endlessly fascinating world of professional wrestling, Michael wraps his own around a hand grinder to explore the world of specialty coffee. Follow Michael on X (formerly known as Twitter) @MSidgwick for more!