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CBS’s Tracker continues to raise the bar with “Monster”, an episode that blends psychological horror, intense action, and strong character moments. What starts as a standard missing-person case quickly morphs into something much darker, as Colter Shaw finds himself tracking a killer with a deeply unsettling backstory. The show continues to refine its formula, using smart plot devices, layered character development, and a creeping sense of dread to keep viewers hooked.

A Classic Thriller Setup, Elevated by Strong Writing
The episode’s opening scene is straight out of a horror movie—a quiet, unsuspecting mother putting her child to bed, a sudden noise in the middle of the night, and then… she’s gone. It’s an instantly gripping cold open that sets the tone for the entire episode.
What makes “Monster” stand out from other Tracker episodes is how effectively it leans into psychological thriller territory. The pacing is tight, with one discovery seamlessly leading to the next, each one revealing deeper layers of the case. The stakes feel real, and the mystery unfolds in a way that keeps us guessing without feeling forced.

One of the episode’s strongest plot devices is the six degrees of separation between the characters. Alice isn’t just some random missing woman—she has direct ties to Paul Hamilton, the killer. And Paul isn’t just some anonymous threat—he’s someone Alice tried to help. These connections make the stakes feel personal and add an emotional weight to the story.

Paul Hamilton: A Villain With Depth
Paul Hamilton is one of Tracker’s most chilling antagonists so far, and what makes him so effective is that he’s not just a mindless killer—he’s a broken man with a warped sense of reality. The episode doesn’t excuse his actions, but it does make him fascinating to watch.

His obsession with Alice isn’t romantic—it’s something deeper and far more unsettling. He sees her as the only person who ever truly saw him, the only one who might be able to “fix” him. His backstory, particularly the reveal that he killed his stepfather after years of feeling ignored and unwanted, makes him a terrifyingly real kind of monster—the kind created by trauma, neglect, and rage. The show smartly uses the amusement park setting to reflect Paul’s mindset. It was a place where he felt abandoned but also safe—a twisted paradox that makes it the perfect final battleground. And the house of mirrors? A classic but highly effective choice, symbolizing both his fractured psyche and the distorted way he sees the world.

Alice: More Than a Damsel in Distress

While Alice spends most of the episode in captivity, she is far from a passive victim. She uses every bit of her training to keep Paul calm, talk him down, and manipulate the situation in her favor. Her conversation with him about choosing to change—not just surviving, but actively working toward a better self—parallels Colter’s own struggles with his past. Alice’s past as an addict also serves as an important reminder that Tracker doesn’t just deal with surface-level mysteries. This episode subtly explores the stigma around addiction and the way people’s past mistakes can be used against them, even when they’ve worked hard to move forward.

Colter: The Lone Wolf With a Heavy Past

While Tracker often focuses on Colter’s skill as a tracker, this episode takes a welcome dive into his personal life. The case itself is compelling, but it’s the final diner scene between Colter and Reenie that adds a much-needed layer of emotional depth. Colter has always been a guarded character, but his story about his mother and how she used pancakes as a way to “restart the day” is one of the most vulnerable moments we’ve seen from him. It explains so much about why he keeps moving, why he never settles, and why he’s so reluctant to let people in.

And then there’s Reenie. She’s the only person Colter consistently lets into his world, and their chemistry continues to simmer. Her gentle push for him to consider therapy isn’t just about professional help—it’s about letting someone in. The way she tells him, “I like that you talk to me,” is a small but powerful moment. She sees through him, just like Alice once saw through Paul. The difference? Colter still has a choice to let people in.

“Monster” – TRACKER, Pictured: Justin Hartley as Colter Shaw. Photo: Sergei Bachlakov/CBS ©2025 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Final Thoughts

“Monster” is one of Tracker’s strongest episodes yet, balancing a compelling case with deep character moments. The use of psychological horror elements elevates the tension, and the villain is one of the most complex and disturbing yet. Meanwhile, Colter’s growing bond with Reenie adds an emotional thread that makes the show feel richer with each episode.

Between Alice’s resilience, Paul’s chilling psychology, and Colter’s rare vulnerability, this episode is a standout. Tracker is proving that it’s more than just a case-of-the-week show—it’s a series about broken people trying to find their way forward.