They Don’t Make ‘Em Like David Lynch Anymore

This article explores the enduring legacy of David Lynch, a filmmaker whose unique style has profoundly impacted cinema. It begins by highlighting a pivotal scene from Twin Peaks, showcasing Lynch's ability to depict the mundane before unveiling the unsettling undercurrents of reality. This "Lynchian" quality, a blend of the everyday and the surreal, is central to his work.

The article argues that "Lynchian" transcends mere stylistic descriptors like "Spielbergian" or "Scorsese-ish," instead encompassing a broader sense of unease and dreamlike disorientation. It uses the contrasting examples of Eraserhead and The Elephant Man to illustrate this duality—the grotesque juxtaposed with genuine tenderness.

The discussion expands on Lynch's creative process, noting his willingness to defy conventions, as seen in Twin Peaks: The Return and his troubled experience with Dune. The article contrasts his unconventional approach with his more conventional Hollywood efforts, highlighting the distinctly Lynchian elements even in his less successful projects. The unique imagery, often bizarre and anachronistic, is a hallmark of his style.

The article then analyzes Blue Velvet, illustrating how Lynch uses the seemingly idyllic setting of Americana to mask a darker, surreal reality. The influence of The Wizard of Oz is mentioned as a key factor shaping his surreal aesthetic. A poll is included, inviting readers to share their favorite Lynch film.

The piece concludes by emphasizing Lynch's impact on subsequent generations of filmmakers. It cites examples of contemporary films—I Saw the TV Glow, The Lobster, The Lighthouse, Midsommar, It Follows, Under the Silver Lake, Saltburn, Donnie Darko, Love Lies Bleeding, Enemy, and Maelstrom—that demonstrate the enduring influence of his "Lynchian" style. The article ends with a photograph of Lynch and Jack Nance on the set of Eraserhead, underscoring the lasting impact of his distinctive vision.