“Red Hair and Silver Tape” is the second episode of season 1 of The Mentalist.
The Mentalist season 1 episode 2 Recap
Patrick Jane and the CBI team investigate the murder of Melissa Henderson, a young lady whose body was discovered buried in a park.
Jane suspects the killer is a client who was too rough with her victim, a drug addict and prostitute.
During their inquiry, they learn that Melissa had a customer named “Big Ed” who drove a unique red automobile.
Big Ed is apprehended and questioned by Jane and the squad.
Despite his first denials, Jane’s strong observation abilities allow him to discover that he is lying.
In his car, they also discover a silver duct tape that matches the tape used to bind Melissa’s hands.
However, when the team attempts to extract a confession from Big Ed, he collapses and dies of a heart attack.
Jane is suspicious of the timing and suspects that the killer poisoned Big Ed to keep him from speaking.
We also discover more about Jane’s history throughout the episode, as he discloses to his colleague Teresa Lisbon that he used to be a false psychic before his wife and kid were murdered by a serial killer dubbed Red John.
Melissa’s killer was actually her own brother, who murdered her in a fit of wrath after she refused to lend him money for drugs.
While the case is closed, Jane is left with the knowledge that Red John is still alive and well, and that he will go to any length to find him.
Conclusion: Red Hair and Silver Tape
“The Mentalist” episode “Red Hair and Silver Tape” delves into the complexities of human relationships and emotions.
The murder case at the heart of the episode concerns a woman with red hair and silver tape, and it drives Patrick Jane and the CBI team on a quest for information, which eventually unveils a labyrinth of lies and secrets.
The cast delivers consistently great performances, with Simon Baker as Jane standing out for his fine portrayal of the character’s biting humor and emotional complexity.
Because of the great storyline and directing, the suspense and tension build to a satisfying finale that leaves viewers wanting more.
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