When Does Yellowstone Get Good?
Most fans argue Yellowstone gets good by about season two and then hits a near perfect home run in season three. While critics were harsh on season one, many fans of the series suggest the first season is still a decent watch and important for story arcs and character development.
Some fans argue the show loses some of its magic in the later half of the seasons, and given the multiple spin-offs, some fans suggest they lost interest in the back half of the series and subsequent spinoffs.
What Fans Say
Fans appreciate Yellowstone for its unapologetic, raw portrayal of power struggles in the American West. Viewers are drawn to its intricate family dynamics and complex characters, particularly John Dutton, who embodies a morally gray protagonist. The show’s high-stakes conflicts and layered relationships keep fans engaged season after season, and its vast landscapes provide a visually captivating backdrop that enhances the show’s intensity. Taylor Sheridan’s screenwriting and his dedication to authenticity in representing rural life and Western traditions are frequently praised by fans, who view Yellowstone as a tribute to the spirit of the West.
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What Haters Say
Critics argue that Yellowstone leans too heavily into conservative stereotypes and occasionally glorifies traditionalism. Some viewers feel the show perpetuates a romanticized, outdated view of rural America that can come across as preachy or overly sentimental. There’s also criticism about certain character arcs, with detractors feeling that some secondary characters lack depth or are used merely to further John Dutton’s storyline. While Sheridan’s political neutrality is a selling point for some, others feel that the show sometimes attempts to mask complex social issues with overly simplistic viewpoints.
Does the Show Fall Off in Quality?
Yellowstone has maintained a generally high level of quality, though some viewers noted a shift in pacing and tone in later seasons. As the series expands with spin-offs like 1883 and 1923, some fans fear that the original storyline may become diluted. However, others feel that the expansion into a larger “Yellowstone universe” has enriched the backstory and context of the Dutton family. Season five, which introduces political storylines involving John Dutton, has received mixed reviews, with some feeling the political elements are heavy-handed compared to earlier, more character-focused narratives.
Aggregated Critic Commentary
| Season | Rotten Tomatoes (Critics) | Rotten Tomatoes (Audience) | IMDb Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | 57% | 83% | 8.1 |
| Season 2 | 88% | 90% | 8.8 |
| Season 3 | 100% | 87% | 8.9 |
| Season 4 | 85% | 82% | 8.7 |
| Season 5 | 84% | 38% | 8.1 |
Critics generally acknowledge Yellowstone as a successful blend of genre elements that captures both the appeal and contradictions of the modern West. The show’s portrayal of land ownership and loyalty has resonated with viewers from diverse backgrounds, though the heavy-handedness of its political and moral undertones has sparked debate. Nonetheless, Sheridan’s vision of a complex family drama set against the backdrop of Western frontier values has been widely lauded for its ambition and scale.
Overview of Yellowstone
Yellowstone, created by Taylor Sheridan, is a neo-western drama centered on the Dutton family, led by patriarch John Dutton (Kevin Costner), who owns one of the largest ranches in Montana. The series, which began airing in 2018, explores the conflicts that arise as the Duttons protect their land against threats from developers, Indigenous tribes, and political opponents. Known for its stark portrayal of modern-day Western life, Yellowstone combines suspenseful storytelling with complex character development and breathtaking cinematography, capturing both the allure and brutality of the rural American West. Sheridan’s storytelling doesn’t shy away from touching on themes of power, loyalty, and justice, making Yellowstone a unique blend of action, family drama, and social commentary.
Season Highlights
Season 1: Introduces the Dutton family and sets up the central conflicts involving the ranch. Key storylines involve clashes with developers and the Broken Rock Indian Reservation. The season establishes John Dutton’s character and explores themes of power and loyalty.
Season 2: Focuses on new threats to the Dutton family, including a wealthy casino mogul and a new rival, the Beck brothers. This season heightens the suspense, showcasing John’s ruthless tactics in defending his land and the increasing stakes for his children.
Season 3: Delves deeper into the Dutton family’s complex dynamics and introduces Market Equities, a development firm targeting the Dutton ranch. Themes of revenge, betrayal, and sacrifice are prominent, with intense confrontations setting the stage for future seasons.
Season 4: Deals with the aftermath of violent attacks on the Dutton family, marking a turning point in the series. This season reveals more about Beth and Jamie’s turbulent relationship and escalates tensions with Market Equities, cementing the family’s resolve to defend their land.
Season 5: John Dutton’s foray into politics as Montana’s governor creates new challenges and conflicts. This season explores the Duttons’ impact on the state’s political landscape, with John’s political stance often sparking debate within his own family. Themes of loyalty and identity are central as John’s children grapple with their roles within the family legacy.
Similar Shows to Yellowstone:
- Longmire (2012-2017): A Wyoming sheriff balances his personal life and job, dealing with crime and political intrigue in the rural West.
- Hell on Wheels (2011-2016): Set in the post-Civil War era, this series focuses on the construction of the transcontinental railroad and its impact on diverse communities.
- Sons of Anarchy (2008-2014): A California biker gang faces internal and external conflicts as they navigate loyalty, crime, and family.
- Justified (2010-2015): U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens enforces his own brand of justice in his Kentucky hometown, dealing with both crime and corruption.
- Ozark (2017-2022): A financial planner relocates his family to the Ozarks, where he must navigate the criminal underworld to protect his family.
If You Liked These, You’ll Like Yellowstone:
- Peaky Blinders (2013-2022): British crime family drama that shares Yellowstone‘s themes of loyalty, power struggles, and the impact of heritage.
- Boardwalk Empire (2010-2014): A historical crime drama that explores themes of power and corruption within a family business.
- Succession (2018-present): Focuses on a media mogul and his children vying for control, drawing parallels with Yellowstone’s family power dynamics.
- The Sopranos (1999-2007): Explores family loyalty and the cost of protecting one’s legacy in the face of relentless external pressures.