The television show “Yellowstone” is an American drama series that premiered in 2018 on the Paramount Network. The show highlights the conflicts that arise both within and without the Dutton family as they attempt to survive the issues of owning a vast cattle ranch in Montana. John Dutton (played by Kevin Costner) is the head of the family and is a widowed sixth-generation rancher.
John constantly wrestles with challenges brought by his children and that of a bordering Indian reservation, national parks, and corporate America. Within the family, John is almost tyrannical in his control of the ranch; he daily faces the drama caused by his politically-motivated oldest son, his former Navy SEAL youngest son, and his business-savvy daughter. Together, with a motley ranch-hand crew, they face the onslaught of neighbors attempting to take over the massive ranch and its land. The family often settles the issues violently, free from the inspection of the news media or law enforcement. The show is perhaps a study in the rules of the wild west, set in the scenes of a new frontier.
The show has become extremely popular, evidenced by more people watching the final episode of season four than any other show in TV history. The reason is it combined classic American western themes with a modern family. Americans identify with the wild west and its intrigue, where rugged, masculine men handle their problems mano-e-mano instead of running from them or allowing others to do their dirty work. A place where men work hard, play hard and reap the rewards of their efforts. It is the place where dreams come true – where men, and women, can rise from nothing and amass a fortune. A place of endless land and possibilities where all is available for the taking if you have enough grit and strength. And all of that is wrapped in a story as old as man – the tale of love, redemption, death, and power. It all seems to be the American way.
I agree with the show’s premise that our wild past has endured making the present flawed and imperfect. We are imperfect because man struggles and is forever guessing the meaning of life and how to deal with it. We seem to deal with it best when we understand the past and learn from it; we suffer the most when we ignore and eliminate it. Nevertheless, the American west and manifest destiny are a part of the American soul and will continue as a vital part of the American dream. The dream of most men is to be a little better, to offer a little more, and to leave a legacy behind. And for that, Yellowstone hits all the marks perfectly.
Lawyair On The Run 