Episode 1706 – Mulholland Drive: trippy

March 18, 2026  

Season 17

Valerie asked me, “How are you going to explain this?” Trippy. It’s David Lynch and it’s trippy. It’s also an antiplot story with characters who have two identities. Where is the speech in praise of the villain and what arc does the story and protagonist have? Well…it’s a mix of pessimistic, dreamy, constant, whoa, what is going on, and none. Pick and choose. Close your eyes and we’ll see you in the void. -M

(The following summary was generated by A.I.)

In this episode of Story Nerd, we dive deep into the surreal world of Mulholland Drive, a film that challenges traditional storytelling with its anti-plot structure. Join Valerie Francis and Melanie Hill as they unpack the complexities of constant characters through the lens of David Lynch’s enigmatic narrative. Explore how the film’s protagonist, Betty, navigates a Hollywood landscape filled with dreams, despair, and the unsettling nature of non sequiturs that leave viewers questioning reality. With plenty of spoilers ahead, brace yourself for a discussion that oscillates between appreciation and frustration, as our hosts grapple with the film’s perplexing themes and characters. Whether you’re a fan of Lynch’s work or just looking to understand the intricacies of storytelling, this episode promises to provoke thought and insight.