Richard Green’s I Know Catherine, the Log Lady is an intimate and deeply affectionate portrait of Catherine E. Coulson, the actress who brought to life one of television’s most enigmatic and beloved characters. Best known as the Log Lady in Twin Peaks, Coulson’s life and final days are explored in a documentary that’s as much about love and resilience as it is about legacy.
Told through a blend of archival footage, personal recollections, and an impressive roster of interviews—including Oscar-winner David Lynch and Pulitzer Prize-winner Robert Schenkkan—the film showcases Coulson's unwavering devotion to storytelling. Perhaps most poignant is the story of her final days: gravely ill yet determined, Coulson delivered her last performance just days before her death, aided by close friends and collaborators who gathered around her in a remarkable act of artistic solidarity.
One of the documentary’s most powerful scenes comes when Lynch recounts one of his final conversations with Coulson, helping her remain grounded through a personal mantra. It’s a tender and quietly shattering moment that exemplifies the film’s greatest strength—its emotional authenticity. The viewer can’t help but be moved by the raw humanity on display, especially if they’ve ever been touched by Twin Peaks' strange, beautiful spell.
However, while the love and respect behind the documentary are unquestionable, the film does have its shortcomings. Structurally, it leans too heavily on traditional “talking head” interviews. Many subjects reiterate the same points, which leads to a sense of repetition and stalls the pacing. The music choices—clearly intended to elevate the emotional tone—sometimes miss the mark, undermining moments that should feel impactful.
Still, for Twin Peaks fans or those newly discovering the mythology, this documentary is rich with moments that deepen the appreciation of the show and the woman who helped shape its mystery. For all its flaws in form, I Know Catherine, the Log Lady triumphs in spirit. It doesn’t just honor Coulson—it illuminates her. And if nothing else, it might just be the push you need to finally dive into Twin Peaks: The Return.
Jessie Hobson