A volatile blast from the past put Jesse Custer center stage as he battled his own morality for the love of his life in season 2, episode 5, “Dallas.”
We kick off with a haunting reminder of the literal consequences of Genesis that sets the tone for the darkest episode of Preacher yet. The tension between Jesse, Tulip, and Cassidy has never been thicker as the love triangle is subdued and Tulip’s secret husband Viktor is eradicated. Before we reach any resolve, we’re treated to a illustrious flashback featuring a domesticated Jesse and Tulip with an even more illustrious mullet.
Credit: Steve Dillon
Getting an extended look at Dominic Cooper rocking the iconic comic hairdo was the icing on the cake in this hilarious yet harrowing sequence. We also get a deeper look at the fallout from Carlos’ betrayal and the devastating effect on Jesse and Tulip. The trauma coupled with the hellish repetition set a short fuse for the explosive rage harbored inside Jesse that not even the cowboy John Wayne could subdue.
It’s also worth noting how far from faith Jesse drifted at this point by allowing the bible to be used as a window prop and rolling papers (an idea I’m sure came from either Seth Rogen or Evan Goldberg). Preacher’s outrageousness and hilarity never ceases to amaze me as it balances even the darkest of episodes. It’s quite literally the darkest too thanks to Michael Morris’ expert eye which crafts a sombering atmosphere perfect for this solemn flashback.
The Custer vs O’Hare quarrel that ended in a bloody Reggie signifies the effect Jesse’s father had on him before he died. He placed Jesse on a pedestal over Tulip, ensuring he remained wholesome and forgivable no matter what violent acts they committed together. This distinction drives a wedge between Tulip and Jesse and prompts him to leave for Annville. We also see this throughout the series, especially when Jesse begins to understand Genesis, and further distinguishes himself from the O’Hare and prioritizes God instead.
Tulip’s secrets make it easy for Jesse to feel betrayed and forsaken leading to even more outrage. However, his temper makes it easy to keep secrets and avoid confrontation. Unlike in Dallas, Jesse chooses Tulip and does what’s best for her despite his own insecurities and temperament. He also does so knowing that killing Viktor will end his relationship with Tulip, which she also confides in Cassidy.
The love triangle ended with a newly divorced (widowed?) Tulip committed to the contained Jesse more now than ever before. To Tulip’s delight, he doesn’t kill Viktor (directly — he does however summon the Saint of Killers who annihilates him and his entire crew) leaving a jealous, side-eyeing Cassidy. It was intense and revealing when he came to Preacher to make amends yet baring his true self (even admitting his envy and would be lack of restraint) and even more so when Tulip confronted his reasons for telling Jesse. Though he still clearly has feelings for Tulip, I think this triangle has ended.
The Saint of Killers spares Viktor’s daughter, who vows to lead him directly to Preacher, promising an epic showdown next episode!
With the unholy trinity’s turmoils extinguished, they can finally band together to stop the indomitable Saint of Killers, with episode 6 “Sokosha” next Monday at 9 p.m. on AMC.