Taylor Sheridan’s ability to balance multiple high-stakes TV projects has become the subject of much discussion, particularly as he continues to oversee the production of eight scripted series in just over six years. Among his standout works is 1923, a prequel to his widely acclaimed Yellowstone. Set against the rugged backdrop of early 20th-century America, 1923 spans seven distinct storylines, all centered around compelling characters whose paths diverge in separate locations yet remain intricately connected. With its expansive scope, Sheridan’s series takes on the monumental task of creating authentic settings, many of which are shot on Sheridan’s own 6666 Ranch in Texas.
What is truly remarkable about 1923 is how Sheridan’s storytelling weaves these diverse threads together, with each character’s journey leaving viewers eager to return and check in on their progress. Despite its sprawling nature, the series never feels fragmented. Rather, each individual storyline—though often brief in runtime—feels like a necessary and cohesive part of the larger narrative. This season, the tonal whiplash that occasionally disrupted Season 1 has been largely smoothed out, resulting in a more cohesive experience that is rich in both drama and thematic exploration.
One of the most poignant elements of 1923 is the portrayal of Teonna’s (Aminah Nieves) trauma, a narrative that serves as a crucial look at the historical abuse suffered by Indigenous children in Catholic-run boarding schools—a subject that has seldom been addressed in American television or film. Season 1 was instrumental in highlighting her suffering, but Season 2 shifts the focus to her quest for liberation. After killing the abusive nun who oversaw her mistreatment, Teonna is on the run, now hiding out in Texas with her father, Runs His Horse (Michael Spears), and a love interest, Pete Plenty Clouds (Jeremy Gauna). The relationship between Teonna and Pete is especially moving given all that she has endured.
Sheridan’s handling of trauma continues to be effective and educational, tackling topics that are often left in the shadows of mainstream media. This approach contrasts with his treatment of race in 1883, where the backstory of Lamonica Garrett’s character, Thomas, alludes to the trauma of slavery, yet it refrains from unnecessary flashbacks, recognizing the over-saturation of such narratives in American media. In 1923, Sheridan also deftly shows how personal abuse often mirrors larger systemic violence, evident in the unsettling storyline involving Whitfield (Timothy Dalton), who manipulates two sex workers against each other, demonstrating how power structures can divide and oppress even the most vulnerable.
Sheridan’s exploration of American immigration also takes center stage in Season 2 through Alexandra’s (Julia Schlaepfer) arc. After the romantic escapades of Season 1, where she and Spencer (Brandon Sklenar) navigated thrilling adventures in Africa, Alexandra finds herself subjected to the harsh realities of immigration in America. Her dehumanizing experience at Ellis Island, where she is stripped and subjected to invasive inspections, is a poignant critique of the country’s treatment of immigrants. Sheridan’s empathy for characters like Alexandra, who must prove her worthiness to a dismissive system, challenges viewers to reconsider their perspectives on immigration, even as they recognize her unique backstory as a member of the British royal family.
At the heart of 1923 is Sheridan’s nuanced approach to complex political and societal themes. His work often critiques the unchecked ambitions of the wealthy elite, as seen in the morally corrupt Whitfield, while also grappling with the constant tension between tradition and progress. His characters, even those positioned as villains, are rarely one-dimensional. Take, for instance, Father Renaud (Sebastian Roché), the priest who oversees Teonna’s abuse. In one powerful scene, he reflects on the history of Black rule in Europe—a moment of intellectual exchange that stands in stark contrast to the horrors he inflicts on others.
Sheridan’s storytelling prowess extends beyond the thematic weight of his narratives. His direction, particularly under Ben Richardson’s cinematic eye, elevates 1923 into a visual masterpiece. The series’ production values are exceptional, from the elaborate set designs to the use of innovative techniques, such as a hydraulic rig used to simulate a storm on a ship. These moments, though brief, heighten the cinematic feel of the show, offering more than just plot progression—they create an immersive viewing experience that rivals many theatrical films.
The series’ ability to balance a plethora of characters, settings, and plotlines speaks to Sheridan’s incredible ambition and creative freedom. His work continues to reflect a personal statement on the dignity of human beings in the face of relentless adversity. The themes of respect, empathy, and personal integrity pervade 1923, reminding viewers of the importance of seeing people beyond their political or ideological labels.
Sheridan’s prodigious output in recent years is a testament to his status as a true auteur. His work, including 1923, is not only an artistic achievement but also a testament to the power of narrative in portraying the complexities of human experiences. As 1923 continues to unfold, viewers are left eager to see how Sheridan will maintain this delicate balance of plot, character development, and cinematic brilliance.
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