Reservation Dogs

• Just a few episodes in and I already know this will be one of the best series this year. It's hilarious and deliciously original. -

My family is from Eastern Oklahoma (Choctaw Nation) and save for the lack of Okie accents, this series is so spot on. I can't recall any media that frames the Indian experience with such raw humor (impeccably delivered by this young crew, btw). Most depictions of Native American life is either pure tragedy and destitution, or an elevation of the "noble savage" trope. To be clear, the driving circumstances here are the very real challenges of poverty and crime that plagues rural Indian communities. But the comedic approach in this series puts these kids in the mainstream and makes their lives widely relatable. Native kids really are just like all other American kids from marginalized, minority backgrounds - with the same attitudes, hustles and pop culture references. In a lot of ways this show is unique to the Indian experience, but it could easily be translated to a black inner city, or an immigrant setting. Basically, anyone and everyone can and should enjoy this show.

Also, side note for anyone unfamiliar with Native American territories - there aren't actually any reservations in Oklahoma. Reservations are sovereign territory with tribal jurisdiction - ie. The Wind River Reservation near where I grew up in Wyoming. However, when OK was made a state, the feds dissolved the tribal governments to make way for the land runs by white settlers. Today, there's this whole complicated governance structure within nations where only tribe members are subject to tribal law, but the state retains most authority.

I know, this isn't all that pertinent to this TV show, but I just wanted to point it out since it's explicitly tying Oklahoma to reservations which is misleading. I absolutely love the reference to Reservoir Dogs, and its totally relevant to the storyline. But considering how little most Americans know about Indian affairs, I hope they find a way to clarify this distinction in future episodes.

Instant classic, unique perspectives, expertly written cast directed and performed. A perfect blend of adventure, compassion, crime, and COMEDY!

The cherry on top, Captain Bobby Lee out of nowhere bringing the "A" game. FX found a diamond here, hope they take care of it.

Just wrapped up season 3, which does a lot of things well, but this most recent batch delivered one the best anti-ageist portrayals I've come across.

Behind the young-but-wise Willy Jack, a community is built that reaches past the graveyard, through prison bars, and even extends to us white devils.

That said there is still plenty of comedic relief (when I die, I hope my "spirit" can deliver some modicum of that). The clear love between the four quirky, strong, memorable young leads is just tremendous. That alone has been there from the very start and like such friendships in real life is built to endure. Brought a tear to my eye repeatedly, even when having me laughing out loud a few minutes later.

Plenty of other topics and time-shifting were expertly woven in as well. Thank you...

No spoilers, do yourself a favor and enjoy all three seasons. Watch 'em with Daniel's spirit by your side.

I don't find it offensive like some people do and I'M NATIVE. This show is hilarious and I would highly recommend it to anyone. I get all the jokes and it has me rolling. I can't wait to watch another episode.

I've only seen two episodes but I am hooked on the story. I like the pace of character development that has already occurred. Looking forward to seeing more.