Tulsa King: A Royal Flush of Action, Humor, and Heart (Seasons 1 and 2 Review)
From the moment Sylvester Stallone’s Dwight “The General” Manfredi stepped off that private jet, cigar in hand and a lifetime of New York mob wisdom etched on his face, Tulsa King announced itself as something special.
Spanning its compelling first two seasons, this Taylor Sheridan and Terence Winter creation has proven to be an absolute knockout, masterfully blending sharp-edged crime drama with laugh-out-loud fish-out-of-water comedy and unexpected moments of genuine heart. For its consistent entertainment, stellar performances, and unique premise, Tulsa King earns a solid 9 out of 10.
At its core, Tulsa King is a tour-de-force for Sylvester Stallone, who delivers arguably one of the most charismatic and nuanced performances of his illustrious career. As a capo exiled to the unlikeliest of places – Tulsa, Oklahoma – after 25 years in prison, Dwight is an anachronism, a dinosaur in a land of cowboys. Stallone embodies this perfectly, balancing Dwight’s hardened ruthlessness and old-world principles with a surprising vulnerability, a sharp wit, and a genuine desire to build something new, even if that “something new” looks suspiciously like an old-school criminal enterprise. His comedic timing is impeccable, creating much of the show’s enduring charm through his exasperated reactions to modern life and the quaint quirks of Oklahoma.
The show’s brilliance lies in its successful blending of genres. The “fish out of water” premise provides endless comedic fodder, as Dwight attempts to apply NYC mob tactics to local marijuana dispensaries, dive bars, and dusty streets. The culture clash is consistently hilarious, and the dialogue, particularly Dwight’s blunt wisdom and old-school lingo, is a highlight. Yet, beneath the laughs, Tulsa King remains a genuine crime drama. Both seasons introduce formidable threats, from rival biker gangs and Native American syndicates to the enduring specter of Dwight’s old life back in New York. The stakes feel real, the action is well-executed, and the narrative maintains a propulsive energy that keeps you engaged.
Season 1 masterfully establishes Dwight’s new world, introducing a motley crew of loyal, if somewhat inept, associates – the street-smart Tyson, the tech-savvy Bodhi, and the charismatic Mitch. The rapid expansion of Dwight’s empire, built on a mix of intimidation and unexpected charm, is immensely satisfying to watch.
Season 2 builds on this strong foundation, deepening the existing character dynamics and introducing new challenges that force Dwight to confront not only external threats but also the consequences of his actions and the complex relationship with his estranged daughter. The expansion of his “family” and the growing loyalties (and betrayals) create a richer narrative tapestry.
The supporting cast shines brightly alongside Stallone. Max Casella as Armand, Dwight’s bewildered handler, provides a fantastic foil. Martin Starr as Bodhi and Jay Will as Tyson evolve from seemingly minor characters into integral parts of Dwight’s burgeoning crew, each bringing their own distinct energy.
Andrea Savage as ATF agent Stacy Beale provides a compelling counterpoint to Dwight, leading to a complicated and often tense dynamic. The authentic charm of the Oklahoma setting, and the unique characters it produces, further grounds the show and differentiates it from other crime dramas.
While Tulsa King doesn’t reinvent the wheel of crime dramas, it perfects its own specific blend. It’s not aiming for the gritty realism of The Sopranos or the sprawling epic of Yellowstone, but rather a highly entertaining, character-driven story that leverages its star power to maximum effect. Some might find certain plot resolutions a tad convenient, or wish for deeper dives into every single supporting character, but these are minor quibbles in an otherwise incredibly fun and addictive viewing experience.
In conclusion, Tulsa King is an immensely satisfying ride. It’s funny, it’s action-packed, and it boasts a central performance that is nothing short of iconic.
Whether you’re a long-time Stallone fan, a connoisseur of crime sagas, or just looking for a genuinely good time with excellent writing and memorable characters, the first two seasons of Tulsa King are a must-watch. It’s got heart, it’s got humor, and it certainly knows how to throw a punch. Bring on Season 3! ( Tulsa King returns Sept 21 on Paramount+)
I Give This TV Show 9 Out of 10 Stars
– Anthony Ferrara
Be the first to comment