Lawmen: The Commanding Presence of David Oyelowo Shines in 'Bass Reeves' Western Series

Article Summary

David Oyelowo delivers a phenomenal performance in Lawmen: Bass Reeves, capturing the character's range of emotions and vulnerability.

The content of the show features an impressive lineup of A-list actors, such as Dennis Quaid and Donald Sutherland. However, certain characters only receive a limited amount of screen time.

Unfortunately, the episodic nature of the series occasionally diminishes the emphasis placed on significant relationships, such as Bass's dedication to his wife Jennie.

Certain roles become so closely associated with the actors who played them that it becomes difficult to imagine anyone else having the same impact. This is exactly what can be said about Paramount+'s Lawmen: Bass Reeves, created by Chad Feehan. While other renowned talents have portrayed the legendary figure in both film and television, none have been given the opportunity to delve into the character as deeply as David Oyelowo. His portrayal is captivating and impossible to ignore.

The story of the series follows Reeves through various crucial moments in his life, starting from his brutal experiences as a slave to his rise as an iconic figure. He becomes the first Black deputy U.S. marshal west of the Mississippi, all while dealing with the dangerous criminals of the time. Historical records depict Reeves as an exceptional marksman and astute investigator. Amidst his law enforcement duties, he also strives to provide for his family. His devoted wife Jennie (played by Lauren E. Banks) holds down the fort at home while Bass is out on assignment.

Lawmen: Bass Reeves was initially promoted as an anthology, and the first five episodes reviewed confirm this. However, it is disheartening to know that our time with this series will be limited. One downside of such a show is that it would be beneficial to spend even more time with the characters and delve further into the story. Unfortunately, there are moments when it feels like the series has only just settled into the main plot, allowing us to become more invested, before suddenly skipping ahead and thrusting both the protagonist and the audience into new, uncertain circumstances.

David Oyelowo Is Phenomenal in 'Lawmen: Bass Reeves'

Release Date: November 5, 2023

Cast: David Oyelowo, Dennis Quaid, Joaquina Kalukango, Justin Hurtt-Dunkley

Main Genre: Western

Genres: Drama, Western, Biography

Seasons: 1

Creator: Chad Feehan

Image via Paramount+

For Oyelowo, taking on the role of Bass Reeves is an exciting opportunity. Having already portrayed historical figures in the past and received recognition for his performances, he sees Bass Reeves as a unique chance to showcase his talents. The story begins with Bass still enslaved to Colonel George Reeves (Shea Whigham), a situation that hinders him from fully realizing his potential. In the show's first episode, Oyelowo's portrayal of Bass is humble and obedient, but also carries a sense of hope for freedom. A powerful moment early on portrays the range of emotions that flash across his face, evoking heart-wrenching effect. Unfortunately, Bass soon discovers that he has been deceived and that the odds are stacked against him.

Fast-forward to years later, Bass finds himself striving to provide for his family through farming. However, an unexpected opportunity arises that could potentially shape their future. Deputy U.S. Marshal Sherrill Lynn (played by Dennis Quaid) presents Bass with an irresistible job offer, despite the demands of the occupation which would keep him away from his loved ones. Additionally, apprehending criminals is by no means a safe endeavor, as history indicates that Reeves has dealt with approximately 3,000 individuals. This dangerous pursuit often leads to compromising methods of arresting suspects. Nevertheless, Bass endeavors to preserve his moral compass, even when his professional colleagues prioritize less honorable actions. These clashes of conscience serve as captivating moments within the series.

'Lawmen: Bass Reeves' Boasts a Cast of Big Names, But Only to a Point

Image via Paramount+

With the anthology format and the episode count increased from six to eight, Lawmen: Bass Reeves allows us only limited time with its impressive cast. Oyelowo, as the strong anchor of the series, brings a vital presence that is essential for the success of Bass Reeves. However, some characters manage to leave a lasting impact even if they only appear briefly throughout the season. In the case of Quaid's Marshal Sherrill Lynn, his appearance transforms the show into a buddy-cop Western, focusing on both his recruitment of Bass and the reluctant partnership that ensues. It's easy to imagine several more episodes exploring their dynamic without weakening the overall story. Nevertheless, as this is primarily Bass's journey, Lynn's moment in the spotlight is brief before fading away.

Donald Sutherland plays a similar role in the overall storyline of Bass Reeves. However, it is not surprising that the esteemed actor knows how to maximize his limited screen time. In his portrayal of Judge Isaac Parker, the man responsible for swearing Bass in as a U.S. Marshal, Sutherland brings the necessary gravity to the moment and provides Bass with valuable perspective on the challenges of his new role. This also highlights the harsh reality that the law can be unforgiving in many instances.

'Lawmen: Bass Reeves' Isn't Always Served by Its Pacing

The episodic structure of Lawmen: Bass Reeves is ultimately disappointing. Although eight episodes may appear to be a plentiful order in the era of streaming television, there are certain aspects of Bass's life that are not given enough time to fully develop. One such aspect is the relationship between Bass and his wife Jennie, which should hold the most weight and significance. Unfortunately, due to plot demands, the series often separates them, leaving their relationship and the natural chemistry between Oyelowo and Banks underserved in their intermittent scenes. It is understandable that being a lawman during this time period is a grueling job, but the series could have benefited from dedicating more time to explore this enduring romance.

Instead, Banks is given more opportunities to showcase his acting skills alongside Sally, played by Demi Singleton (King Richard), the eldest daughter of Reeves. Their characters often express concerns for Bass's safety and fate, making us long for the strong family scenes that we rarely see with Oyelowo, who is often separated from the rest of the cast. With the constant dangers and sleepless nights surrounding Reeves' law enforcement work, including more scenes emphasizing his safe haven at home would have greatly benefited the series and given a more human touch to this legendary character, surpassing previous portrayals on-screen.

When it was officially announced that Lawmen: Bass Reeves would not be connected to Taylor Sheridan's Yellowstone universe, it remained uncertain whether this would be a positive or negative outcome. However, in retrospect, allowing Lawmen: Bass Reeves to stand on its own was the best decision that could have been made. Not only does the series thrive in its own narrative, free from being entangled in the Dutton family drama, but it also grants the lead actor the freedom to deliver a complex and evolving performance, further enhancing the depth of one of America's most iconic figures. If only we had been given more time to witness this remarkable portrayal.

Rating: B+

Lawmen: Bass Reeves premieres with its first two episodes November 5 on Paramount+ in the U.S.

Watch on Paramount+

Editor's P/S

As an ardent fan of Westerns, I was eagerly anticipating the release of "Lawmen: Bass Reeves," and I must say, David Oyelowo's commanding presence in the series is truly remarkable. His portrayal of the legendary Bass Reeves, the first Black deputy U.S. marshal west of the Mississippi, is nuanced and captivating. Oyelowo brings a depth of emotion and vulnerability to the character, showcasing his range as an actor.

The supporting cast, including Dennis Quaid and Donald Sutherland, is equally impressive, but I found myself wishing for more screen time for certain characters. The episodic nature of the series sometimes detracts from the development of significant relationships, such as Bass's dedication to his wife Jennie. It would have been enriching to delve deeper into these dynamics and explore the personal sacrifices Bass made in his pursuit of justice.