The second season of CBS’s acclaimed action drama, Tracker, showcases the protagonist, Colter Shaw (portrayed by Justin Hartley), grappling with numerous challenges both professionally and personally. However, the pacing and structure of the season have made it difficult for viewers to engage with the unfolding drama. Each episode features Colter tackling a different case, ranging from locating missing family members to navigating organized crime and even dabbling in supernatural themes. In a notable subplot, Colter’s brother Russell (Jensen Ackles) locates him after he has gone missing, aiding Colter in solving another disappearance in the second episode titled, “Ontological Shock.”
Despite the reunion with Russell, Colter’s unresolved personal cases lack the depth necessary to draw in the audience. These mysteries include the tragic death of their father, Ashton (Lee Tergesen), and the long-standing disappearance of Gina Picket. Season 2’s eighth episode, which served as the midseason finale, began to delve into Colter’s connection to the Gina Picket case. However, it raises the question of how much of these entangled mysteries will be unraveled when the series returns in early 2025.
The Overarching Storyline of Tracker Season 2 Lacks Depth
The Disappearance of Gina Picket Lacks Engaging Depth
Although Colter finds himself intrigued by the Gina Picket case, the narrative fails to convey the deeper emotional stakes that haunt him. Aside from the unresolved nature of the case, the on-and-off relationship with Gina’s sister, Camille (Floriana Lima), adds little substance to the plot. During their meeting in the episode “The Night Movers,”Camille expresses resignation, suggesting they accept Gina’s presumed fate, which leaves viewers unsettled regarding her loss of hope.
A turning point arrives when retired police officer Keaton (Brent Sexton) reveals he has encountered someone with knowledge about Gina’s case. Unfortunately, the fall finale leaves viewers in suspense with more questions than answers, failing to provide significant reasons for investment in Gina and Camille’s plight. This underdeveloped storyline is particularly frustrating when compared to other, more compelling plotlines that are overlooked.
Tracker Season 2 Neglects Essential Story Arcs
Colter’s Unresolved Narratives Require Further Exploration
This season also overlooks several important plotlines that deserve attention. The mystery surrounding the death of Ashton Shaw, Colter’s father, was a focal point of the first season. However, this season has seen minimal development concerning Ashton’s death, with only fleeting mentions between Colter and Russell in episode 2. Given the personal stakes of this storyline, viewers anticipate deeper interactions between the brothers as they confront their family history.
Additionally, character Teddi Bruin (Robin Weigert), who played a vital role in season 1, remains absent this season without much clarification. Colter’s romantic tension with Reenie Grene (Fiona Rene) has also stagnated, lacking development beyond a few awkward encounters.
Strategies for Improving Tracker Season 2’s Storytelling
Return to the Strong Foundations Established in Season 1
Clearly, the second part of Tracker Season 2 must prioritize stronger organization and narrative clarity. The storyline surrounding Gina’s disappearance needs to enhance understanding of Colter’s relationship with Camille and establish the relevance of Gina’s character, as well as Keaton’s role as a key ally. Following the culmination of Gina’s narrative, it is essential that the mystery of Ashton’s death is resolved in the season finale, revealing significant insights into his life and resolving the complicated dynamic between Colter and Russell.
While the supernatural elements introduced this season intrigue some viewers, Tracker tends to shine in its grounded and practical case-of-the-week format. A return to these foundations from season 1 is imperative for restoring viewer investment.
Tracker Season 2 is set to return to CBS in February 2025.
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