What Is a ‘Truthstorian’? Ethan Hawke and Sterlin Harjo Weigh In

FX has launched a new crime drama, The Lowdown. The series stars Ethan Hawke as a crusading journalist. It premiered this week on the cable network.

The show is created by Sterlin Harjo of Reservation Dogs fame. It delves into corruption and dark family secrets in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Plot and Characters: A Truth-Seeker in Over His Head

Ethan Hawke plays Lee Raybon, a self-proclaimed “truthstorian.” He publishes an article exposing the powerful Washberg family. This act triggers a dangerous chain of events.

Lee is quickly targeted by violent thugs. He also becomes entangled with a menacing figure named Allen Murphy. Kyle MacLachlan co-stars as Donald Washberg, a corrupt gubernatorial candidate.

Keith David appears as a private detective. He is hired to watch Lee but often ends up saving him. The series is a love letter to classic film noir, according to its creator.

Oklahoma Setting and Noir Influences

Creator Sterlin Harjo specifically set the story in Tulsa. He told The Hollywood Reporter that the city’s history is ripe for a noir tale. The plot involves land development in a historic Black neighborhood.

Harjo cited major influences like Chinatown and The Big Lebowski. He also mentioned novelist Jim Thompson. The goal was to celebrate the history of the genre.

The setting provides a fresh backdrop for the classic story. It connects the fictional corruption to real historical tensions in the region.

Ethan Hawke’s Physical Performance

Hawke’s character endures significant physical punishment throughout the show. The actor emphasized bringing realism to Lee’s injuries. He played the role with a constant sense of stiffness and pain.

Hawke described Lee as a “spiritual warrior” with many blind spots. He found humor and humanity in the character’s flaws. This multi-dimensional approach makes Lee both earnest and comical.

The series establishes itself as a unique and gritty addition to FX’s lineup, blending classic noir elements with a distinctly modern and regional identity.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: Who created ‘The Lowdown’?

The series was created by Sterlin Harjo. He is best known as the co-creator of the acclaimed show *Reservation Dogs*. Harjo also sets the new series in his home state of Oklahoma.

Q2: What is a “truthstorian”?

It is a term Ethan Hawke’s character, Lee Raybon, uses for himself. It reflects his mission to uncover historical truths. The creator mentioned it was a deliberately quirky and funny label for the character.

Q3: Who else stars in the series alongside Ethan Hawke?

The cast includes Kyle MacLachlan as Donald Washberg. Keith David plays a detective named Marty. Tim Blake Nelson also appears in a key role.

Q4: What is the tone of the show?

The show is a dark crime drama with elements of humor. It is heavily inspired by classic film noir. The series balances gritty violence with character-driven comedy.

Q5: Where is ‘The Lowdown’ filmed?

The series is filmed on location in Oklahoma. This is a key creative choice by creator Sterlin Harjo. It provides an authentic backdrop for the story.