Key Takeaways:
– Kevin Costner's return to Yellowstone is a hot topic in Hollywood amidst his ongoing conflict with Taylor Sheridan.
– Costner's character, John Dutton, displays a distinctly ruthless and morally compromising personality, which is reminiscent of the golden age of television characters like Tony Soprano.
– Yellowstone is considered a push towards a new supremacy in television, encompassing intense storytelling and a vast mythology.
– Critics liken John Dutton to ‘Tony Soprano on a ranch,' reflecting his complete lack of empathy and ruthless power pursuit.
Fans in Anticipation: Will Kevin Costner Return to Yellowstone?
The bustling backlots of Hollywood have been abuzz with rumors about Kevin Costner's anticipated return to the hit series Yellowstone, or lack thereof. The audience's to-the-hilt loyalty to the ruthless Dutton patriarch underscores the insatiable craving for more morally complex characters.
Lessons from The Sopranos: Modern Television's Morally Grey Crusade
The nuanced portrayal of morally questionable characters, beginning with The Sopranos, significantly altered the television landscape. Its successful run ignited Hollywood's interest in producing grittier shows like The Wire, Mad Men, Game of Thrones, and Breaking Bad, marking the much-needed progression of television genres.
John Dutton: A New Level of On-Screen Evil
Following the path paved by these groundbreaking shows, Yellowstone premiered in 2018, towing behind it the start of a fresh golden era of television. However, Kevin Costner's ruthless character, John Dutton, adds a newer, darker dimension to this indication of progress.
Despite the breath-taking cinematography and vast mythology of Yellowstone, some argue that its inner workings have a bitterness to them, unlike the heroes of The Sopranos and Breaking Bad.
The Radiance of Yellowstone: A Blend of Genres
Unlike The Sopranos, which adheres strictly to its mafia-crime identity, Yellowstone explores a broader spectrum of narratives. Besides being a cowboy saga, it evolves into a plot about a power struggle over land ownership and Machiavellian political manipulation, which ultimately reinforces the mantra of ‘family-first.'
However, this ambition necessitates the portrayal of John Dutton committing heinous acts that make the deeds of Tony Soprano and Walter White seem permissible on their moral ground.
John Dutton: ‘Tony Soprano on a Ranch'
In an interesting Reddit comment, a user drawa parallel between John Dutton and Tony Soprano. They argue that Dutton is everything wrong with America today – a representation of neoliberal ideology and crony capitalism. The character's ruthless pursuit of power and disregard for social equity are some of the means by which this is suggested.
Fans also note Dutton's indifference towards the welfare of his family and his employees. Earning a reputation as a character willing to cross the Styx and conquer Hades to maintain power, Dutton isn't afraid to take unprecedented measures. Whether it's secreting bodies across state lines or building a devoted cult-like following ready to plunge their swords at his command, Dutton knows no bounds.
John Dutton's complex character arc continues to be a magnet for Yellowstone's audience, offering a fascinating landscape for exploring the possible extremes in power pursuits. Will Costner's return as Dutton quench fans' thirst for more enticing drama? Only time can tell as this ruthless patriarch continues to dominate our screens.
You can stream episodes of Yellowstone on Paramount+.
In conclusion, Yellowstone pushes the envelope of modern television by invoking morally complex characters that are challenging to understand yet captivating to watch. It is this fascination that keeps viewers hooked, no matter how ruthless the characters become.
