Take Three: The Leftovers

The Leftovers: Season 1, Episode 3 “Two Boats and a Helicopter” (B+)

It’s a brave thing for a show to feature just one of its characters so early into its run. The first two episodes of this show have introduced us to this world and how it works, but what this episode managed to do was dig deep into the soul of one particular person. It’s strange to see Matt framed in a positive light since, before this, he was cast as a villain, deriding the good names of those who disappeared in the rapture. Now, we get a full picture of his life, as he struggles to make ends meet while sticking true to his convictions, insisting upon the merits of his work despite nearly everyone being against him. Connecting him to Nora was very effective, since the two loneliest people in town actually share a connection. His run-in with Laurie when he went to get the money was powerful, and what happened next was just mesmerizing. Watching him bet the money over and over, managing to win an incredible amount, only to be mugged in the parking lot before going nuts on his attacker, then getting hit by a rock when he stopped to help someone on his way to the bank, was entirely gripping. His subsequent visit to the bank brought this show back to its supernatural roots with the lost time, and then that look from Patti sealed it all. This show has such a grim and eerie outlook, and this chronicle of a cursed man was a fantastic introduction.