The Intense Pursuit: Reviewing Episode 6 of Lawmen: Bass Reeves

Bass Reeves (David Oyelowo), driven by his unwavering commitment to upholding the law, now finds himself facing a reversal of fortune. In Episode 6 of Lawmen: Bass Reeves, viewers are presented with a new question - could he possibly be a villain?

This fall from grace did not happen overnight. In Episodes 4 and 5, Bass has been targeted with various attempts to intimidate him, suggesting that there is a bounty on his head. Many are indifferent to whether he is captured dead or alive - they simply want him removed for the unspoken 'greater good.' The public opinion of the supposed Lone Ranger has unquestionably shifted for the worse after Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 6.

Bass Reeves: Man or monster?

Once revered as a symbol of safety, Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 6 distorts public perception of Bass and his legacy. As he moves through a saloon to get a drink, onlookers fall silent and distance themselves, dampening the usual merriment. Bass is soon challenged by a passing Texas ranger, leading to a group ambush that nearly leaves him for dead. Drunk and alone, it’s the first time since Episode 1 that we see the odds stacked against him – except this time, it’s all his own doing.

The one positive outcome of Bass’ moral crisis is the rapid growth of Billy Crow (Forrest Goodluck). In Episode 5, Bass told Billy that he’s not cut out to be a U.S. Deputy Marshal after making a call that ultimately took someone’s life. However, Billy's unwavering support for Bass reignites both his own standing and the mutual trust between them. It's clear that Billy doesn't draw inspiration from Bass, but he does have respect for him and wants to follow his heart rather than what the law dictates.

Resolutions feel too tidy

At this juncture, Bass may have veered too distant from his previous identity, resulting in a persistent feeling of uncertainty that he has never displayed before. More than ever, Bass is determined to seek validation and be perceived as doing the right thing. It is only when he is directly confronted with the consequences of his actions - the public execution of three criminals - that Bass realizes a change of direction is imperative. For the audience, this could be disheartening considering his meaningful bond with a transported prisoner in the preceding episode. Is Bass following his heart, or is he simply maintaining a façade to please others?

Paramount+

In Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 6, Bass is clearly on a journey back to inner reconciliation. However, his external peacemaking efforts come across as slightly more trite. Even before the episode begins, there is a lot of apologizing to do, which mainly revolves around the repeated disappointment of his oldest daughter Sally (Demi Singleton). Having said her final farewell to the only thing that gave her joy, Bass is given the opportunity to make amends. He delivers a swift apology in three sentences, and all is forgiven in under 30 seconds.

The focus then shifts to Jennie (Lauren E. Banks), who persuades Bass to have dinner with the local pastor. The conflict between law and religion becomes apparent as the pastor tries to recruit Bass to help spread Christianity in the Indian Territory. Instead of speaking up for himself, Bass lets Jennie do the talking and feels deceived by the dinner invitation. It seems that the show has always been more about mental struggle than physical violence, and Bass appears to be almost overshadowed by his own story.

However, the most compelling aspect of Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 6 is the portrayal of Bass as a flawed man. Despite being called "a monster" by Esau Pierce, everything Bass has done is now cast in doubt. Throughout the series, we have only seen how others perceive Bass, not how he sees himself. With six episodes in, Bass still does not have an answer, but a phoenix is poised to rise from his insecurities.

Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 6 review score: 3/5

Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 6 might lose momentum in places, but the narrative provides plenty of intriguing food for thought.

Explore the captivating inner conflict of Bass is the most intriguing aspect of the narrative, even if the resolution feels rushed. The combination of social commentary and dramatic storytelling is reaching a new level, and we are fully immersed in the momentum.

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Editor's P/S

In the sixth episode of "Lawmen: Bass Reeves," the show takes a daring turn by challenging the protagonist's heroic status and delving into his moral ambiguity. Bass Reeves, played by David Oyelowo, faces a crisis of character as he is haunted by the voice of Esau Pierce, questioning his righteousness and blurring the line between hero and villain. This thought-provoking episode invites viewers to reevaluate their perception of Bass and ponder the complexities of his nature.

The episode effectively portrays Bass's fall from grace through various attempts to intimidate him, culminating in a shocking ambush that leaves him on the brink of death. The once-revered lawman now finds himself isolated and distrusted, struggling to regain his footing amidst the threats and doubts surrounding him. It is intriguing to witness Bass's vulnerability and the toll it takes on his determination to uphold the law.