Taylor Sheridan, renowned for his unflinching portrayal of reality in movies like Wind River and Hell or High Water, has left a distinct mark on Hollywood with his unique approach to storytelling. However, it’s his wildly popular TV series Yellowstone, that has captured the imagination of audiences with its raw depiction of life in the modern-day American West. Starring Kevin Costner, this series has turned heads with its intense drama and complex characters, enveloped in the harsh realities of power, family, and survival.
Sheridan’s Philosophy on Violence: From Hollywood to the Rugged Plains
Unlike the typical Hollywood glorification of gunfire and combat, Sheridan’s philosophy leans towards a more realistic and visceral portrayal of violence. He explains his approach as capturing “the realism of that,” referring to the brutal and swift nature of real-life confrontations. Sheridan’s intent to mirror the abrupt and dirty reality of gunfights—a stark contrast to the choreographed sequences often seen in films—is evident in his works.
His dedication to authenticity was particularly notable during the preparation for a major shootout scene in Wind River. Sheridan immersed himself in LAPD gunfight footage, absorbing the chaotic and fleeting nature of actual shootouts, which he described as “sudden and violent and over before they start.”
What If “Yellowstone” Had Taken a Cue?
Imagine if Sheridan had brought this level of gritty realism to Yellowstone. The series already boasts a lineup of shocking moments—like the death of Lee Dutton in the pilot, which set a tone of unpredictability and sorrow right from the start. Yet, Sheridan believes that more could have been done to bring the stark reality of violence to the forefront of the series.
Had Sheridan infused Yellowstone with the same unfiltered, raw energy he envisioned in Wind River, the impact of each bullet and each confrontation might have been more profound. Viewers might have been left with a more visceral reaction to the violent struggles on the Dutton ranch, reinforcing the perilous nature of their existence.
The Hollywood Effect: Glorification vs. Reality
In Hollywood’s quest to dramatize, there’s often a fine line between enhancing a story for entertainment and distorting the truth. Sheridan stands out for his efforts to tread carefully on this line, choosing to reflect the harshness of violence without adornment. His critical view of the glorification of violence, shared in a candid interview, underscores his commitment to truthfulness, “I didn’t want to glorify that,” Sheridan remarked, highlighting his aim to present violence as a desperate fight for survival, not a cinematic spectacle.
A Legacy Threatened by Commercial Interests
Despite the acclaim and success of Yellowstone, there are concerns that commercial pressures could dilute the powerful narratives Sheridan aims to tell. The series has been a financial boon for Paramount, but this success brings with it the temptation to prioritize profits over artistic integrity. If commercial interests begin to overshadow Sheridan’s vision, the series might risk straying from the gritty realism that makes it so compelling.
Yellowstone continues to be a testament to Taylor Sheridan’s ability to craft engaging and thought-provoking narratives. However, one can’t help but ponder what additional layers of authenticity could have been added if Sheridan had applied his full philosophy of violence to the series. As Yellowstone evolves, it remains to be seen whether Sheridan will steer it back towards the unvarnished truth of the American frontier or if it will remain couched in the dramatic flair that both captivates and veils.