The unfiltered Dutton family history returns in Season 2 of 1923.
Creator and showrunner Taylor Sheridan is an unstoppable force of nature proving why he does not need any cinema for Yellowstone to have a cinematic universe of its own making. The franchise remains consistent in delivering a whirlwind of rich storytelling, immersive imagery, and phenomenal performances by actors, veteran and young, who stand on equal footing in this world Sheridan has built.
1923 takes place years after Yellowstone’s first prequel 1883. It follows Jacob and Cara Dutton, played by Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren respectively, as they navigate through harsh times and fight tyrants to protect their home, The Yellowstone Ranch, and keep their family safe. The odds are not in their favor with opposing factors including pandemics, the end of Prohibition, historic drought, and the evil tycoon Donald Whitfield(Timothy Dalton) who seems to be holding all the cards for now. What makes matters worse is the legendary Spencer Dutton(Brandon Sklenar) who is more than capable of literally fighting lions singlehandedly is away and probably lost at sea.
It’s not a spoiler to say the Duttons ultimately keep their home. If that wasn’t the case, the flagship series Yellowstone would not exist. How they hold to the ranch during this tumultuous period is left to be uncovered. One thing is certain, Duttons never run away from a fight.
The Dutton Clan vs. the World
It’s amazing how the Duttons are not necessarily a force for good in the traditional sense, but a force against evil. They abide by a gritty Western philosophy that calls them to defend family and what rightfully belongs to them. The first three episodes of 1923 season two reveal the extent of the resilience running through Dutton blood across generations. Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren are once again incredible as the power couple Jacob and Cara Dutton. Those legends breathe life into characters who refuse to let mortality take them away from a fight. Watching them act feels like a masterclass as they accomplish excellent storytelling by living through their characters.
Brandon Sklenar’s Spencer Dutton is a powerful and intimidating presence who lives up to the hype. He transforms into the superhero that is Spencer Dutton. His only problem is separation from his family. Now he is fighting to reunite with his love and go home to his aunt, uncle, and the rest of his family. That distance is perhaps what’s best for 1923’s saga because the story would be over from the moment he arrives at the Yellowstone. He would make quick work of Donald Whitfield.
The Devil Himself
Now is a great time to segway into how much I loathe Donald Whitfield, played by Timothy Dalton. If you are one of those people who think “he’s not really a villain, just misunderstood”, please stop watching this series and seek professional help. It is not too late to turn your life around. It is so blood-boiling witnessing the depths Whitfield would go to torment others for his sick amusement. He is a sadistic bully who worships himself and cherishes power in its darkest shapes and forms. Dalton succeeds in his resolve to make Donald so irredeemable and cruel. I may forgive him for portraying such an evil villain, but not today.
1923 Is As Real And As Raw As It Can Be
1923 is essential viewing for not only Yellowstone fans but aspiring filmmakers, actors, and Western enthusiasts as well. The quality of production, visuals, attention to detail, and talent set the bar as high as the mountain top. The visuals especially are majestic or gruesome depending on the setting the scene calls for. 1923’s atmosphere can be inviting or harsh. The series has no problems destroying any innocence left in viewers for devasting and heartbreaking moments. This is not a series for those with a weak stomach.
As brutal as the 1923 can be at times, the performances of the cast, writing, and directing greatly complement each other, making the series worth watching.
