20 TV Show Pilots That Are Totally Flawless
1. Northwest Passage - Twin Peaks
Who killed Laura Palmer?
From the moment her body was found by poor old Pete Martell - "dead, wrapped in plastic" - Laura's life and death dominated the central mysteries of David Lynch and Mark Frost's surreal crime drama, and came to effect everyone in town in strange and harrowing ways.
Called in to investigate Laura's murder, FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper is introduced to Twin Peaks' eccentric locals whilst he tries to find the clues needed to solve the case. The characters are what make the episode great, each of them more bizarre and compelling than the last, all of them brilliantly written and expertly performed.
Twin Peaks is a bewildering viewing experience, and Northwest Passage, with its uncertain mystery, strange characters and dreamlike execution is no exception. It's utterly captivating from the off, and makes for a perfect start to one of TV's most unique and influential shows.