November 2023 is all about Westerns on Paramount+. Following the recent addition of classic genre films like “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” and “High Noon” to the streaming platform, they’re now serving up fresh series content centered around cowboys, outlaws, and the Wild West. “Lawmen: Bass Reeves” is the latest offering, available for streaming starting November 5th, 2023 – coinciding with its U.S. release. It kicks off with two episodes, with the remaining episodes following weekly.
Bass Reeves was a real-life lawman from the 19th century who escaped slavery to become the first black Deputy Marshal west of the Mississippi River. During his active years, he is said to have arrested over 3,000 criminals without ever being wounded. In the series, he is brought to life by “Selma” star David Oyelowo. The illustrious ensemble also includes Hollywood veterans Dennis Quaid (“The Day After Tomorrow”) and Donald Sutherland (“The Hunger Games”).
“Lawmen: Bass Reeves” is part of the “Yellowstone” franchise, which might still be under the radar in many parts of the world but has evolved into one of the biggest recent series phenomena in the United States. The main series is nearing its (semi-)end, following the somewhat contentious departure of lead actor Kevin Costner, who is focusing on his new Western epic, “Horizon.” However, the universe continues to expand.
Both the prequel series “1883” and “1923” have broadened the Dutton family’s story (featuring stars like Sam Elliott, Harrison Ford, and Helen Mirren). “1923” has already been greenlit for a second season, and “Yellowstone” itself will continue with a sequel series (potentially with Matthew McConaughey as Costner’s replacement). Furthermore, two more spin-offs, “6666” and “1944,” have already been announced. This level of expansion in such a short time is quite remarkable in the television landscape.
With “Lawmen,” which is only loosely connected to the rest of the franchise, the possibilities are endless if it proves successful. However, this series is designed as an anthology format, with each season telling self-contained stories of other real-life lawmen from the Wild West.
An interesting note about “Lawmen: Bass Reeves” is that it marks the first series within the “Yellowstone” universe that wasn’t primarily created by Taylor Sheridan. Considering Sheridan’s nearly superhuman output (with numerous other series and film projects), this isn’t particularly surprising. While he wasn’t the chief creator, Sheridan played an integral role in developing “Lawmen” and serves as an executive producer. This time, the showrunning responsibilities are in the hands of Chad Feehan, known for his work on “Ray Donovan.” Christina Voros, who has directed several episodes of “Yellowstone” and “1883,” directed most of the episodes.
So, get ready to saddle up and explore the untamed landscapes of the Wild West with “Lawmen: Bass Reeves,” a captivating addition to the expansive “Yellowstone” universe.