Summary
Mindhunter Season 2, Episode 7 toys with politics mixed with the investigation, as the Atlanta case is becoming a dead-end.
This recap of Mindhunter Season 2, Episode 7 contains significant spoilers. You can read the recap of the previous episode by clicking these words.
Episode 7 begins with Holden and Bill facing a dead-end with suspect Yarborough. It was a blatant non-interview, with plenty of clutched straws. He confesses to masturbating in the woods over porn magazines, which is why his semen DNA ended up there. And during the interview, another body was found.
Holding suggests a bold plan to draw the killer out — he believes they are playing games with the police. Holden asks if the planned marches could be rerouted near planned vigils, where the killer might attend to remember. Holden is advised about the rerouting but is also requested to remain sensitive to the situation.
Bill’s family is facing more stress; Bill is distracted and pushed for time every single day. He tries consoling with Wendy about his troubles — he’s starting to wonder who his son is. The stress is heightened when there is an unscheduled spot visit from the assessor. Also, the victim’s parents visit Nancy, and they state they forgive her son.
As for Wendy, she’s feeling like an outsider, with the job starting to chafe on her motivation as it begins to shift. She asks Ted if she can remain out in the field, but Ted insists she should stay at the base for analysis. Wendy is disappointed by this and speaks to Kay about her situation. Wendy also asks Kay if she would like the spare room, and her partner blows up — “do you want a roommate or do you want to live together? I want you to want me to move in?”. It’s a valid point by Kay, as Wendy consistently compartmentalises her life, and she’s worried about the stigma of same-sex relationships. Wendy will have to overcome her mindset to keep Kay in her life.
Back at Atlanta, the community is sure that the Klan is carrying out the murders. They also believe the politicians are playing politics rather than focusing on catching the killer. This drives the police to start monitoring the Klan members.
I found this to be oddly ironic, that the police are swayed by the community, but will likely stray them further to landing a prime suspect.
Mindhunter Season 2, Episode 7 ends with Brian sweating, trying to get a Cross to a Vigil that they procured very late in the project; the Cross needs building Ikea-style, meaning he gets it to the Vigil as the march arrives.
Holden is demoralised by the lack of help from the FBI and the community as another body is found, while Bill is exhausted by family troubles. What is clear is that there is a pattern.
The Altered Tapes
- Nancy can tell Bill is not eating enough in Atlanta.
- Bill makes Holden aware that he has personal issues at home.
You can read the recap of the eighth episode by clicking these words.
