Critics at Large | The New Yorker Episode: The New Western Gold Rush Release Date: January 16, 2025

In the January 16, 2025 episode of Critics at Large titled "The New Western Gold Rush," The New Yorker's critics Vinson Cunningham, Naomi Frye, and Alexandra Schwartz delve into the surprising resurgence of the American Western genre in contemporary television and film. This detailed discussion explores the reasons behind the Western's enduring appeal, its modern reinterpretations, and its reflection of current societal tensions.

Introduction: The Western Revival

The episode opens with the hosts acknowledging a listener-driven request to examine the flood of new Westerns emerging in the media landscape. They express fascination with how these timeless narratives are experiencing a "boom," likening their sudden popularity to "gophers sprouting up" (01:41).

Key Contemporary Westerns

Yellowstone

Yellowstone, starring Kevin Costner, is highlighted as a flagship example of the genre's modern iteration. The show, now concluding its fifth season, centers on the Dutton family, wealthy ranchers in Montana, and their battles to maintain their land against various external threats.

Nomi Frye [02:03]: "It's sort of like one of the first myths of America."

The discussion underscores Yellowstone's focus on territorial control and familial legacy, traditional Western themes reimagined within a current-day setting.

Landman

Another significant mention is Landman, created by Taylor Sheridan, the same mind behind Yellowstone. The show, featuring Billy Bob Thornton and John Hamm, explores the oil industry in West Texas, blending Western motifs with modern-day conflicts involving oil magnates and Mexican drug cartels.

Alex Schwartz [12:38]: "American Primeval is about a lot of different things... fictionalized account of real-life clashes between the U.S. army, Mormon settlers, and native tribes."

Landman exemplifies the neo-Western by intertwining personal drama with broader socio-economic battles over land and resources.

American Primeval

American Primeval, a Netflix limited series, is dissected in detail. Set during the Utah War of 1857, it portrays fictionalized events between the U.S. army, Mormon settlers, and Native American tribes vying for control over territory.

Nomi Frye [10:55]: "It's positively Hobbesian."

The show is praised for its gritty depiction of violence and chaos, reflecting the tumultuous birth of American society.

Themes and Relevance of the Western Genre Today

Conflict and Justice

The hosts discuss how modern Westerns maintain the genre's core conflict over land and rights, deeply embedded in narratives of justice and societal formation through violence.

Alex Schwartz [05:14]: "I'm looking for violence... At least one kerchief."

This insistence on depicting conflict underscores the ongoing relevance of Westerns in exploring foundational American values and struggles.

Influence of Taylor Sheridan

Taylor Sheridan's pivotal role in shaping contemporary Westerns is examined. His work, characterized by intense territorial disputes and morally complex characters, resonates with current political climates, particularly around themes of expansionism and governance.

Vincent Cunningham [30:37]: "It's impossible to overstate the influence of Sheridan."

Sheridan's shows, Yellowstone and Landman, are lauded for their ability to merge traditional Western elements with modern societal issues, appealing to a broad audience.

Nature and American Identity

The portrayal of nature as an untamable force is a recurring theme. The hosts connect this to real-world issues like wildfires and environmental degradation, emphasizing how Westerns encapsulate the struggle between human ambition and nature's unpredictability.

Alex Schwartz [43:05]: "One thing I want to know from you guys is do you think this is a red state show?"

Character and Storytelling in Neo-Westerns

The episode highlights the complex characterization in modern Westerns, where protagonists navigate personal demons alongside external conflicts. Characters like Taylor Kitsch's role in American Primeval and Billy Bob Thornton's in Landman are portrayed as flawed heroes striving for stability amidst chaos.

Nomi Frye [15:00]: "Sarah... through her uncomprehending eyes... what the hell is going on."

These nuanced portrayals add depth to the traditional Western archetypes, making them relatable to contemporary audiences.

Political Undertones and Red State Appeal

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the political implications of neo-Westerns. Yellowstone and Landman are often labeled as "red state shows," reflecting conservative ideologies through their emphasis on land ownership, individualism, and resistance to external threats.

Alex Schwartz [35:58]: "Do you think this is a red state show?"

The hosts debate whether these shows subtly critique liberalism while celebrating frontier values, suggesting that their popularity might be tied to current political divisions and the desire for narratives that affirm traditional American virtues.

Lessons from Westerns and Contemporary Relevance

The panelists explore what modern Westerns can teach us about navigating today's societal challenges. Themes of community, resilience, and the negotiation of new frontiers are seen as metaphors for contemporary issues like political polarization and technological advancements.

Alex Schwartz [45:44]: "Can we set up something that is more stable?"

They propose that the Western genre, with its focus on foundational societal questions, remains a powerful lens through which to examine and address current and future dilemmas.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Western

The episode concludes by affirming the Western's timeless ability to mirror and critique the American experience. The hosts suggest that as long as America faces challenges related to land, identity, and governance, the Western genre will continue to evolve and resonate.

Alex Schwartz [46:17]: "You need those like-minded people. If you're outnumbered, your days are numbered."

Critics at Large adeptly captures the essence of the Western revival, illustrating how these narratives retain their potency by adapting to the evolving landscape of American culture and politics.