Ep 2. On Your Mark

In "Mr. Mercedes" season 1 episode 2 titled "On Your Mark," Bill Hodges (played by Brendan Gleeson) continues his investigation into the Mercedes Killer case, which he had previously given up on. He is now certain that the killer, Brady Hartsfield (played by Harry Treadaway), is taunting him and decides to visit the suspect at the electronics store where Brady works. Meanwhile, Brady is setting up his next murderous plan, which involves manipulating a young boy named Tyler (played by Jack Huston).

The episode begins with Bill Hodges visiting a local pawn shop to see if he can find any clues related to the Mercedes Killer case. He is approached by a woman who tells him that her son, Tyler, is missing. Tyler is a quiet boy and always followed the rules, but he has suddenly disappeared without a trace. Bill begins to suspect that Brady Hartsfield might be involved, but he needs more evidence before he can act.

At the electronics store where Brady works, he is upset by an elderly customer who is causing problems for the staff. He later sets up a trap for the man, causing him to fall and break his hip. Brady seems pleased with his actions and is seen laughing to himself.

Meanwhile, Bill Hodges is trying to gather information about Brady's past. He visits his mother, who is in a nursing home, and tries to question her about her son's behavior when he was younger. She initially denies any knowledge of Brady's violent tendencies but later reveals that he used to torture animals and set fires. Bill is disturbed by this information but realizes that it could be useful in building a case against Brady.

As Bill continues his investigation, he starts to receive taunting messages from Brady, who is clearly enjoying the game that they are playing. Bill decides to take matters into his own hands and visits the electronics store where Brady works. He confronts him about the messages and tries to get him to confess to being the Mercedes Killer. Brady denies any involvement, but Bill is convinced that he is lying.

Back at the store, Brady is bonding with Tyler, the missing boy from earlier in the episode. He brings him into his secret lair, where he has set up a room with all of the tools that he needs to carry out his next killing. Tyler seems unsure about what is happening but is too afraid to leave.

The episode ends with Bill Hodges getting a phone call from Brady, who tells him that he has set his sights on a new victim. Bill realizes that he needs to act fast and starts to put together a plan to stop Brady before it's too late.

Overall, "Mr. Mercedes" season 1 episode 2 is a tense and suspenseful hour of television that keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat. The dynamic between Bill Hodges and Brady Hartsfield is fascinating to watch, and the addition of new characters like Tyler adds another layer of complexity to the story. It's a great follow-up to the pilot episode and sets the stage for what's to come in the rest of the season.