Outer Range

"Outer Range" is one of those series that grabs you from the get-go and doesn't let go. It's a unique blend of Western drama and mind-bending sci-fi that really sets it apart. If you're into mysterious plots with a dash of the supernatural, then this show should be right up your alley. Think of it like if "Yellowstone" met "Stranger Things".

First off, Josh Brolin as Royal Abbott is fantastic. He brings a gritty, no-nonsense vibe to the character, a rancher in Wyoming trying to hold his family and land together. Brolin's portrayal is the heart of the series, combining the rugged charm of a Western hero with the vulnerability of a man grappling with forces beyond his understanding. He brings that perfect mix of a stoic cowboy and a man haunted by otherworldly mysteries. Think of him as the John Wayne of interdimensional dilemmas. His performance alone makes you want to saddle up and ride into the unknown.

The show starts in classic Western fashion: big skies, open plains, and a rancher trying to hold it all together. Then you realize that this series isn't about cows and crops. Nope! There's a mysterious seemingly bottomless black void on his property. This isn't just any hole in the ground—it's a gateway to some pretty mind-blowing stuff. And let me tell you, nothing says "You might want to find another place to graze" quite like a spooky abyss in your backyard. The mystery of the void drives the plot forward, and trust me, it gets more intriguing with each episode. The series masterfully keeps you on the edge of your seat, teasing out secrets and cliffhangers that make it hard to stop watching.

One thing I love about "Outer Range" is how it balances its genres. On one hand, you have this classic Western setting with breathtaking landscapes and cowboy hats, while on the other hand, you have sci-fi elements that keep you guessing. It's a combination that might sound odd, but the show pulls it off seamlessly.

The setting itself, is a character, with the Wyoming landscapes serving both as a beautiful backdrop and a constant reminder of the isolation and mystery that defines the series. The supporting cast is also top-notch. Imogen Poots plays Autumn, a mysterious drifter with her own agenda, and she keeps you guessing about her true intentions. Then there's the Abbott family, with characters like Perry (Tom Pelphrey) and Rhett (Lewis Pullman), each bringing their own depth and complexities to the story.

And let's not forget the Tillersons, the rival ranching family. If you took the Duttons from Yellowstone and added a dash of Lynchian weirdness, you'd get something close. These characters add layers of intrigue and dark humor, making every confrontation more unpredictable. 

One of the joys of "Outer Ranger" is its refusal to spoon-feed the audience. The story unfolds in layers, revealing just enough to keep you hooked but leaving plenty of questions unanswered. The show isn't just about the mystery of the void. It delves into deeper themes like family loyalty, loss, and the struggle to maintain one's identity in the face of unimaginable events. The writing does a great job of making you care about these characters and their predicaments, and the slow-burn storytelling pays off with some genuinely shocking twists.

If you're a fan of series like "Yellowstone" but with a sci-fi twist, or if you enjoyed the puzzle-like nature of "Dark," then "Outer Range" is definitely worth a watch. It's the kind of show that gets under your skin, making you think about it long after the credits roll. The show's blend of genres is where it truly shines. It's drama but it also had moments of dark comedy. One moment you're watching a tense family drama, the next you're questioning the nature of reality itself. It's the kind of show that makes you laugh, gasp, and think, sometimes all in the same scene. 

In comparison to similar series, "Outer Range" has a unique charm. It doesn't rely solely on its sci-fi elements to keep you hooked. Instead, it marries those elements with a grounded, emotional storyline that makes the bizarre aspects of the plot feel all the more real and impactful. And a special shoutout to the visual effects team. They've managed to create a sci-fi element that feels both otherworldly and grounded. The void is not just a plot device; it's a presence. You can almost feel its pull, its mystery, its...voidness. And the way it interacts with the characters and the environment is seamlessly integrated into the story. 

Overall, "Outer Range" is a gripping, thought-provoking series that blends genres in an inventive way. It's got heart, humor, and enough twists to keep even the most jaded viewer on the edge of their seat. Its strong performances, especially from Josh Brolin, and its compelling mystery make it a standout show. Whether you're a fan of cowboy hats or cosmic mysteries, this show has something for you. I highly recommend that you give this series a shot. It's a wild ride that's definitely worth taking.

I give this series 4 out of 5 acorns.