TV’s Best New Show: Near-Perfect Rotten Tomatoes Score
Summary of the Review of “The Lowdown”
This review paints ”The Lowdown” as a refreshing and unique neo-noir crime series. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
* Character-Driven & Complex: The show excels at creating layered, contradictory characters. Ethan Hawke’s character, Lee Raybon, is a sincere seeker of truth and justice, but also craves attention.
* Unique Tone & Influences: It’s a blend of influences - David Lynch, Elmore Leonard, Raymond Chandler, Sherman Alexie, and even The Big Lebowski. It’s described as an “anti-Taylor sheridan” series, prioritizing smart dialog, wit, chaos, and humor over melodrama and machismo.
* Not a Typical Neo-Noir: While the premise (corrupt businessman, framed death, lone investigator) sounds like shows like Reacher or Banshee, Raybon is a far cry from a typical action hero. He’s more likely to run and talk his way out of trouble.
* Strong Sense of Place: The show is deeply rooted in its Oklahoma setting (Tulsa specifically), creating a vivid and immersive atmosphere, comparable to HBO’s Mare of Easttown (TASK) and its portrayal of rural Pennsylvania.
* Based on a Real Person: The character of Lee raybon is inspired by real-life tulsa citizen journalist, Lee Roy Chapman.
* Plot Summary: The story revolves around Raybon investigating the death of Dale Washberg and the possibly corrupt dealings of his family and a local developer with ties to neo-Nazis.
In essence, the review positions “The Lowdown” as a smart, quirky, and character-focused crime drama that stands out from the crowd. It’s a show that prioritizes atmosphere, dialogue, and flawed characters over typical genre tropes.