FX’s “The Lowdown”: A Gritty Dive into Noir with a Modern Twist
Sterlin Harjo, known for his groundbreaking series “Reservation Dogs,” has once again captivated audiences with his latest project, “The Lowdown.” This new show, which premiered on FX, showcases Harjo’s unique ability to blend genres, moving seamlessly from comedy to thriller to character drama. However, unlike his previous work, “The Lowdown” firmly roots itself in the film noir tradition, offering a fresh perspective on the genre while exploring contemporary themes.
A Modern Noir Protagonist
At the heart of “The Lowdown” is Lee Raybon, portrayed by Ethan Hawke. Raybon is a secondhand bookstore owner in Tulsa who moonlights as a self-proclaimed “truthstorian.” His mission? To expose the hidden hypocrisies and secrets of Oklahoma’s elite. This duality of character reflects a classic noir trope: the everyman caught in a web of corruption and danger. The pilot episode sets the tone with a shocking suicide linked to Raybon’s latest exposé, leading to a harrowing kidnapping that underscores the perilous nature of his investigations.
Harjo emphasizes the importance of Raybon’s character, stating, “You gotta get beat up, and Ethan’s really good at it.” This sentiment captures the essence of a noir protagonist-someone who endures physical and emotional trials while remaining relatable to the audience. Hawke’s portrayal of Raybon embodies the struggle of an underdog fighting against overwhelming odds, a hallmark of classic noir narratives.
The Grit and Reality of Noir
In traditional film noir, protagonists often find themselves in morally ambiguous situations, navigating a world rife with violence and betrayal. Harjo draws inspiration from this tradition, crafting a narrative that resonates with contemporary viewers. “The world is against him, and I love that,” Harjo explains. “The story’s kind of about discovering who they are when faced with insurmountable danger and pressure.”
The show’s second episode, titled “The Devil’s Mama,” further explores this theme. It opens with Raybon attempting to conceal the physical aftermath of his latest confrontation, highlighting the gritty realism that permeates the series. Unlike the polished detectives of classic noir, Raybon’s struggles are grounded in everyday life, making his journey all the more compelling.
The Influence of Classic Noir
Harjo’s approach to “The Lowdown” is heavily influenced by classic noir films, particularly Robert Wise’s 1949 boxing noir, “The Set-Up.” In this film, the protagonist, an aging fighter, grapples with the pressures of his profession and the choices that define his life. Harjo notes, “I showed ‘The Set-Up’ to the writers before we started writing the show, because the character basically can’t get out of his own way.” This sentiment resonates with Raybon’s character, who finds himself ensnared in a web of deceit and danger as he seeks the truth.
The noir genre has long been a vehicle for exploring societal issues, and “The Lowdown” is no exception. By placing Raybon in a contemporary setting, Harjo invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of modern life, including the pervasive influence of capitalism and the moral dilemmas that arise within it.
A Unique Blend of Genres
While “The Lowdown” is firmly rooted in noir, it also incorporates elements of dark comedy and character-driven drama. This genre-blending approach allows for a richer narrative experience, as Harjo and his team navigate the complexities of human emotion and societal critique. The show’s humor often emerges from the absurdity of Raybon’s situation, providing a counterbalance to the darker themes at play.
Harjo’s storytelling philosophy emphasizes the power of genre to convey deeper truths. “I found that I just loved the parameters of genre, how much you could say within those parameters,” he explains. This perspective allows for a nuanced exploration of character and theme, elevating “The Lowdown” beyond a simple crime drama.
The Stakes of Truth-Telling
At its core, “The Lowdown” is a story about the pursuit of truth in a world that often seeks to obscure it. Raybon’s investigations serve as a commentary on the importance of accountability and transparency, particularly in an era marked by misinformation and corruption. As he delves deeper into the lives of the elite, the stakes become increasingly high, reflecting the real-world challenges faced by journalists and truth-seekers today.
The show’s narrative structure mirrors the chaotic nature of uncovering hidden truths. Harjo notes, “One character opens something up and then the noir, the world, sort of spreads.” This interconnectedness of characters and events creates a sense of urgency, propelling the story forward and keeping viewers engaged.
Conclusion: A Fresh Take on a Timeless Genre
“The Lowdown” stands as a testament to Sterlin Harjo’s innovative storytelling and his ability to breathe new life into the noir genre. By blending elements of dark comedy, character drama, and social commentary, the series offers a unique perspective on the struggles of the modern everyman. With Ethan Hawke’s compelling performance as Lee Raybon, audiences are treated to a character who embodies the resilience and determination that define the human experience.
As the first two episodes of “The Lowdown” are now available for streaming on Hulu, viewers are invited to join Raybon on his journey through a world fraught with danger and deception. In doing so, they may find themselves reflecting on the complexities of truth, morality, and the human condition in a rapidly changing society.
