Ethan Hawke stars in the new FX neo-noir crime drama, The Lowdown, which delves into the complex history of Tulsa, Oklahoma, through the eyes of a tenacious journalist named Lee Raybon. As a self-proclaimed “truthstorian,” Raybon uncovers the secrets of a powerful family, the Washburgs, while navigating a landscape marked by both dark history and present-day implications.
The series, created by Sterlin Harjo, is not merely a light-hearted narrative; it explores significant historical events often overlooked in American education. One pivotal storyline involves the Trail of Tears, the forced relocation of Indigenous tribes in the 1830s, during which over 100,000 individuals were displaced and more than 15,000 died. This tragic chapter significantly impacted tribes such as the Cherokee and the Seminole, the latter of which Harjo is a member.
In an interview with Variety, Harjo emphasized that while the series addresses painful history, it also highlights resilience, stating, “those tribes rebuilt, and those tribes are thriving now.” This theme of survival intertwines with the narrative as Raybon’s investigation reveals the consequences of systemic racism that persist today.
The Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921 serves as another critical historical backdrop in the series. A white mob attacked the Black community of Greenwood, known as Black Wall Street, following unfounded rumors involving a Black teenager and a white woman. The violence resulted in the destruction of over 35 city blocks and the deaths of more than 300 individuals, yet it remained largely unreported for decades. Raybon’s research uncovers the potential involvement of the Washburg family in this massacre, suggesting that their wealth may have been built on the devastation of others.
The gripping narrative of The Lowdown illustrates how the repercussions of these historical injustices continue to afflict the people of Tulsa. In the first episode, Raybon confronts wealthy white individuals who are engaged in gentrification, purchasing land previously owned by people of color. This scenario starkly reflects ongoing discrimination, as Raybon attempts to expose the manipulations of those in power.
The series also introduces characters that further elucidate current racial dynamics. Early on, Raybon encounters two Neo-Nazis who resent his coverage of their activities, illustrating the persistence of white supremacy in Tulsa. Additionally, two Indigenous characters discuss their experiences with incarceration, highlighting the long-standing effects of oppression on Native communities.
By engaging with these historical truths, The Lowdown creates a hauntingly authentic experience for viewers. The narrative showcases how the legacy of discriminatory practices continues to shape the social fabric of Oklahoma. Dale Washburg, a character with aspirations for political power, exemplifies the enduring influence of systemic inequity, suggesting that some individuals will exploit these dynamics for personal gain.
As the season progresses, audiences can anticipate further revelations regarding Raybon’s investigation into the Washburg family’s ties to Tulsa’s darker past. Harjo’s commitment to addressing these somber aspects of history aims to foster healing within the community. He remarked, “That truth and being honest with your past is healing, and it brings a community back together and wakes people up.”
With new episodes set to air, The Lowdown promises to challenge viewers to confront uncomfortable truths while highlighting the significance of understanding history in shaping a more equitable future. The balance of harrowing narratives with a message of hope ensures that this series resonates deeply, prompting reflection on the past’s impact on contemporary society.