“Lawman: Bass Reeves” – Season 1 (2023) starring David Oyelowo / Z-View

Lawman: Bass Reeves – Season 1 (2023)

Created by: Chad Feehan

Director: Christina Alexandra Voros (eps. 1-3, 7 & 8); Damian Marcano (eps. 4-6)

Screenplay: Chad Feehan (ep.1 & 8); Jewel Coronel (ep.2); Jacob Forman & Ning Zhou (ep. 3); J. Todd Scott (ep.4); Terence Anthony (ep.5); Jacob Forman (ep.6); Chad Feehan & K.C. Scott (ep.7)

Stars: David Oyelowo, Lauren E. Banks, Demi Singleton, Forrest Goodluck, Barry Pepper, Dennis Quaid, Grantham Coleman, Shea Whigham and Donald Sutherland.
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Tagline: Some legends are true.

The Plot…

Dramatization of the life of Bass Reeves.

Bass Reeves was born a slave, escaped to freedom and became one of the first black Deputy US Marshalls. Over his 30 plus years as a Deputy U.S. Marshal, Reeves arrested approximately 3,000 felons.  He killed 14 men without ever being shot himself.  He was smart, fearless and relentless.

It’s time his story was told.

Thoughts (beware of spoilers)…

Way back in 2013, I did a post called The Life and Times of Deputy U.S. Marshall Bass Reeves.  At that time I called for a movie or tv series about Bass Reeves.  I’m happy to report that Lawman: Bass Reeves was worth the wait.  Everything about the series is first rate.

The writing and direction are top notch.  All of the characters are well cast.  David Oyelowo who plays Bass Reeves was nominated for a Critics Choice and Golden Globe Award.  He deserves every honor available – he’s amazing in this role.  Dennis Quaid and Barry Pepper have never been better.  Let’s not forget to mention the talents of Lauren E. Banks, Demi Singleton and Shea Whigham.

Bring on season 2.

Lawman: Bass Reeves – Season 1 (2023) earns 5 of 5 stars.