David Lynch’s masterpieces: from Twin Peaks to Dune

The adage “one of a kind” might seem overused, but it perfectly describes David Lynch, a filmmaker who has made an art of reinvention, breaking conventions with each new work.

Iconoclastic, influential and charming in his eccentricity, Lynch created surreal landscapes populated by unusual characters, from a disfigured Londoner to a government agent fascinated by coffee, cherry pie and solving a small-town murder. This director, whose work spans various genres and styles, has enriched our cinematic culture.

In a 2014 interview, Lynch said: “The ideas that come to us are like gifts, we were lucky to receive them.” This sums up the genius behind his innovative “Twin Peaks” series.

To honor this brilliant and singular spirit, here are five essential works by David Lynch:

‘The Elephant Man’ (1980)

Three years after his first film “Eraserhead”, Lynch tackles the true story of John Merrick, an Englishman often rejected because of his physical deformities. This black-and-white drama received eight Oscar nominations and even inspired the creation of the “best makeup” category. Although it is one of his most accessible films, it is a touching exploration of humanity and society’s treatment of the marginalized.

‘Dune’ (1984)

Although Denis Villeneuve’s recent two-part adaptation brought new audiences to Frank Herbert’s expansive universe, Lynch was the first to bring these gigantic sandworms to the screen, starring Kyle MacLachlan in a role of cosmic hero. This film, often considered a failure by Lynch, remains a cult work full of enthusiasm.

‘Blue Velvet’ (1986)

“Blue Velvet” marks a turning point in Lynch’s cinema, which asserts his surrealist style and creates a captivating unease in spectators. MacLachlan plays a college student who, upon returning to North Carolina, discovers a mutilated ear. The film tackles dark themes with memorable performances, notably that of Isabella Rossellini as a fatal singer and Dennis Hopper as a crazy gangster.

‘Twin Peaks’ (1990)

In April 1990, a question burned on everyone’s lips: Who killed Laura Palmer? Lynch transforms the detective classic into an office conversation phenomenon, a series rich in symbols and surreal images. Even after the murder was solved, “Twin Peaks” continued into a prequel film and was revived for a new generation in 2017.

‘Mulholland Drive’ (2001)

This work, initially planned as a television series, was eventually transformed into a film, providing a surreal experience. Naomi Watts plays an aspiring actress whose destiny intersects with that of an amnesiac woman, sinking into a world of films and mobsters. Although it does not follow classical logic, the film offers a multitude of fascinating reflections.