Editorial

‘Yellowstone’ Season Five Review: The Duttons Get Political

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Kay Smythe News and Commentary Writer
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Now that the 2022 midterm elections are over, it’s time to turn our attention to the country’s next great political dynasty: The Duttons of Yellowstone Ranch.

That’s right, “Yellowstone” is returning to your screens Nov. 13, and you should be very, very excited for it. I got to preview the first two episodes, and while they are very much a return to the Dutton family we know, we’re also finally introduced to a completely re-envisioned chapter of their lives and the future of the Dutton Yellowstone ranch and Montana as a whole.

Don’t worry, I won’t be giving away spoilers, but let’s just say that it’s quite exciting to see at least one politician, John Dutton (Kevin Costner) actually stand up for his voters, his home, and the natural world that allows humans to flourish on this planet without having to sound woke at all. The plot line is very much the traditional battle between good and evil, with clear good guys and bad guys, giving it that feel of a classic piece of entertainment, but the themes are contemporary without being preachy.

Here are some things I am willing to tell you about the first two episodes of season five: the first sets up the season in epic fashion, moves both quickly and slowly in terms of plot line, and packs a very serious punch with minutes to spare at the end. The second episode is enough to get your blood pumping just like the pilot did all those years ago. (RELATED: REPORT: ‘Yellowstone’ Star’s Wife Demands He Quit The Show)

Finally, though I’ve written before about my disdain for Monica (Kelsey Asbille) and she’s still one of the most inherently reckless women I’ve observed, my God does she come across as tough enough to handle herself in season five. The two-hour premiere on Paramount will be one to remember.