Top five episodes from the True Detective series

Few TV shows manage to cement their cult classic status as quickly as True Detective has. Starring Woody Harrelson and Matthew McConaughey as detectives who are tasked with investigating a spate of murders across Louisiana, the show mixes drama, religion, romance and mystery to create something truly unique that has captivated viewers around the world.

Whilst each of the eight episodes that comprise the series has something special to offer, there are some episodes that stand out more than others, whether it’s because of memorable dialogue, great action, or a combination of the two. Below are the five best episodes of True Detective season 1.

1. Who Goes There

There are certain episodes of every great show where the viewer realises they’re watching something truly special and Who Goes There is just such as episode. Amongst the things that make this episode one of the very best in the series is the tension that builds as Rust has to go back undercover to infiltrate a biker gang he’d previously worked with. The episode culminates with an incredible six minute, single take tracking shot that shows Rust trying to escape with his life in the midst of a shootout.

2. The Long Bright Dark

The opening episode of True Detective sees Rust and Martin being plunged head first into the case that they’ll attempt to solve throughout the course of the series. It becomes apparent very quickly that the two detectives have very different personalities and world views.

The highlight of the episode is the conversation between Rust and Martin on Rust’s faith, or lack thereof. Religion plays a big part in the show, as does the ever-changing relationship between Rust and Martin and this scene does an excellent job of establishing both Rust’s bleak outlook on life and setting up the tension between them that pervades the entire story-line.

3. Form and Void

There’s always a risk with any beloved show that it will disappoint fans with an unsatisfactory ending. Luckily, True Detective has one of the best finales of any show in recent memory.

Form and Void does a masterful job of building the tension throughout the course of the episode and the scenes where Rust and Martin are pursuing Childress through the labyrinthine tunnels in the woods near the killer’s home are both scary and thrilling in equal measure.

4. After You’ve Gone

The penultimate episode of True Detective marks a distinct shift in tone for the show. It’s the first time you see present-day Rust and Martin interacting after a falling out back in 2002. Whilst the two are still as different as they ever were, they’re able to put their differences aside in a bid to finally track down the killer whose been tormenting them for all these years.

After You’ve Gone has a particularly chilling final scene, giving viewers’ a first glimpse of the elusive serial killer, and sets up the final episode masterfully.

5. Seeing Things

Seeing Things is a more subdued episode, especially when compared to the likes of Who Goes There but that doesn’t mean it’s any less effective. It sees Rust and Martin further pursuing the murder of Dora Lange and discovering vital clues that will come into play later in the series.

The editorial unit