| "The Western Book of the Dead" | |
|---|---|
| True Detective episode | |
| Episode no. | Season 2 Episode 1 |
| Directed by | Justin Lin |
| Written by | Nic Pizzolatto |
| Cinematography by | Nigel Bluck |
| Editing by | Alex Hall |
| Original air date | June 21, 2015 |
| Running time | 60 minutes |
| Guest appearances | |
| |
"The Western Book of the Dead" is the first episode of the second season of the American anthology crime drama television series True Detective. It is the 9th overall episode of the series and was written by series creator Nic Pizzolatto, and directed by Justin Lin. It was first broadcast on HBO in the United States on June 21, 2015.
The season is set in California, and focuses on three detectives, Ray Velcoro (Colin Farrell), Ani Bezzerides (Rachel McAdams) and Paul Woodrugh (Taylor Kitsch), from three cooperating police forces and a criminal-turned-businessman named Frank Semyon (Vince Vaughn) as they investigate a series of crimes they believe are linked to the murder of a corrupt politician.
According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 3.17 million household viewers and gained a 1.4 ratings share among adults aged 18–49. The episode received mixed-to-positive reviews from critics, who praised the cast, cinematography, and Lin's directing. However, some expressed criticism for the writing, with many criticizing the "over-stuffed" characters and pacing.