Sterlin Harjo, the creator of the critically acclaimed series “Reservation Dogs,” is set to enchant audiences once again with his new noir-inspired series, “The Lowdown,” premiering on FX on September 23. This new venture stars Ethan Hawke as Lee Raybon, a citizen journalist embarking on an investigative journey through the dark, unexplored alleys of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Harjo brings his unique storytelling approach to the world of noir, a genre he cherishes, by setting the story in his hometown.
Harjo’s deep connection with Tulsa is personal, as he is a member of the Muscogee Creek tribe, which founded the city. “The Lowdown” addresses the city’s complex history, including the harrowing 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, while simultaneously offering a narrative of survival and resilience. This exploration of Tulsa’s narrative showcases Harjo’s commitment to unearthing untold truths and generating healing dialogues about America’s darker histories.
Drawing inspiration from Tulsa’s own history and his experiences with the local muckraking journal, This Land Press, Harjo infuses “The Lowdown” with authenticity and depth. Lee Raybon, played by Hawke, is partially inspired by the late journalist Lee Roy Chapman, who was known for his relentless pursuit of truth. Harjo’s depiction of Lee Raybon reflects Harjo’s own experiences as a young filmmaker working to highlight unspoken stories in Tulsa.
The ensemble cast adds to the show’s allure, featuring stars such as Kyle MacLachlan, Tim Blake Nelson, Jeanne Tripplehorn, and Kaniehtiio Horn. Their participation, Harjo notes, is partly driven by their admiration for Harjo’s work on “Reservation Dogs,” a series celebrated for its movie lover’s touch.
Anticipation for “The Lowdown” is elevated by Harjo’s plan to continue Lee Raybon’s investigations across future seasons, each a standalone exploration of crime and intrigue. Alongside “The Lowdown,” Harjo is busy developing a comedic Western series, an adaptation of a piece of American literature, and a film project at Searchlight, which signals a prolific period for the filmmaker.
Fans of “Reservation Dogs” will delight in the subtle connections between the two series, highlighted by a cameo from Paulina Alexis, reinforcing the continuity and shared universe of Harjo’s creations.
“The Lowdown” is not merely a new entry in Harjo’s filmography but a continuation of his mission to reveal hidden truths and craft narratives that resonate with historical significance and contemporary relevance. As the series airs on September 23 on FX, viewers can expect a richly woven tale of mystery, culture, and survival emanating from Harjo’s unique cinematic lens.