You can see David Oyelowo’s passion coming through in “Lawmen: Bass Reeves.â€
In even the quietest scenes, he exudes determination – not unlike the character.
Considered a life role for the actor, “Bass Reeves†is an intense look at one of the first Black U.S. deputy marshals west of the Mississippi. Determined to uphold justice, he encounters corruption everywhere and, through it all, remains devoted to his family.
It’s almost too good to be true.
The western, however, crackles with action throughout, particularly when Reeves is defending his turf. He has a way with a weapon and a focus that says he’s not going to back down.
While several of the later action episodes ride a familiar path, much of the home drama soars, particularly when Reeves’ wife and daughter are charged with keeping the farm going. Lauren E. Banks and Demi Singleton get Oyelowo’s passion and aren’t about to let the story down. Racial issues receive a full airing around the dinner table, even when they’re edged elsewhere.
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Produced by “Yellowstone’s†Taylor Sheridan, “Lawmen: Bass Reeves†spends ample time telling Reeves’ story, then lets him make like “Walker, Texas Ranger.†While the battles have great stunt work (and cinematography), they detract from the accomplishments of a man who had to fight every time he hit the road.
Oyelowo gets a full range of acting challenges (note how good he is at marksmanship) and isn’t afraid to make you think the character never sleeps. While other roles (“Selma†in particular) have showcased his skills, this one puts it all out there and comes away with a series that could set him up for something even bigger.
Aided by writer/showrunner Chad Feehan, Oyelowo shows viewers the precarious position Reeves was in. While much of it could be fictitious, it works.
If other “lawmen†are featured in the series, they should have actors who have the same force as Oyelowo. He makes you care about the man he’s playing – and what happens to him.