Uncovering Gold: A Review of Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 5

Throughout both fiction and real life, our beloved law enforcer has faced numerous challenges. Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 5 finally showcases what viewers have long believed possible – the captivating and educational journey of Bass' life.

If you've been keeping up with our weekly episodic reviews, you're aware that the first half of Season 1 has been quite tumultuous. Episode 1 set the historical foundation with compassion, while Episodes 2 and 3 fell short in portraying the true essence of Bass Reeves. As Episode 4 unfolded, there was a sense of hope and a well-deserved reward for dedicated viewers.

In Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 5, Bass (David Oyelowo) takes on a more compassionate and empathetic role as he is tasked with transporting a Black prisoner. This episode showcases Bass's growth and ability to understand both sides of the law, as well as his willingness to lead with his heart. Despite the ongoing threat to his reputation, Bass maintains a balance between his legendary status and his humanity, making this episode a truly rewarding experience for viewers. Spoilers ahead!

Bass Reeves is fully fleshed out

The wait for Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 5 has been long, but it finally reveals a fully developed titular character. Bass is no longer just focused on duty and doing the right thing; he openly yearns for his time at home, especially as his children show little interest in getting to know him. His ability to empathize with others continues to grow, using his connections as a Deputy Marshal to fulfill his duties while also allowing people to share their stories with him. As the world changes around him, Bass appears fully prepared to adapt. While Bass longs for his family, his children clearly feel uncomfortable with his absence. Sally (Demi Singleton) rebels by showing little interest in her father's work, instead pursuing her own interests and a crush. She demonstrates her Reeves resilience, defending herself – and throwing a strong punch – when confronted by a group of white boys.

Relatable morale balances serious subjects

Jennie (Lauren E. Banks) finds herself at a crucial juncture, finally lifting her head from the sand to take a clear look at the reality surrounding her. The unique position of Bass has provided the Reeves family with a safe haven, shielding them from the atrocities endured by Black people in the 1800s. With the help of her friend Esme (Joaquina Kalukango), Jennie is compelled to face the harsh truth, causing a shift in her perspective on the challenges that her children may face.

Paramount+

In Episode 5 of Lawmen: Bass Reeves, Bass undergoes a transformation during his journey with the prisoner. Whether it's singing with the prisoner or opening up during a heart-to-heart at a stranger's house during a storm, Bass' moral compass begins to waver. As viewers, we are confronted with the harsh reality of the show's historical accuracy as the prisoner recounts the horrors of his life as a captured slave.

Episode 5 skillfully balances serious subjects with relatable human experiences. Sally just wants to enjoy the carnival in town, finally getting Jennie to agree to her spending time with the boy she likes. Meanwhile, Billy Crow continues to find his footing as a Deputy Marshal, causing friction with Bass' vision for the law. Despite this, the episode still delivers quality action sequences, including a dramatic shop shootout that almost gets Billy killed. The moral dilemmas around death and responsibility add depth to the storyline, and the episode ends on a cliffhanger as Bass transports his prisoner to Esau Pierce, his former master's rival. The stakes remain high, keeping the audience engaged even when it seems like Bass is not in immediate danger.

Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 5 review score: 4/5

Lawmen: Bass Reeves has done some damage with the struggle through its earlier installments, but Episode 5 is in a league all its own.

Explore the delayed but promising journey of Bass as he begins to tap into his full potential, building anticipation for an epic finale. Watch Lawmen: Bass Reeves on Paramount Plus. Check out our additional coverage below.

Editor's P/S

In Lawmen: Bass Reeves Episode 5, we witness a profound transformation in the character of Bass Reeves, brilliantly portrayed by David Oyelowo. Bass, a legendary lawman, has always been depicted as a stoic figure, unyielding in his pursuit of justice. However, in this episode, we see a more compassionate and empathetic side to Bass as he is tasked with transporting a Black prisoner. Through this journey, Bass's unwavering moral compass is tested, and he begins to question his role in a society rife with racial injustice.

The episode deftly explores the complexities of Bass' character as he struggles to reconcile his duty as a lawman with his growing understanding of the plight of the oppressed. This internal conflict is palpable as Bass interacts with the prisoner, sharing stories and forming a human connection that transcends their vastly different backgrounds. Oyelowo's nuanced performance brings depth and authenticity to Bass's emotional journey, allowing viewers to empathize with his struggles and understand the weight of his responsibilities.