‘The Lowdown’ Finale: Creator Sterlin Harjo Explains Lee’s Choices
The FX series set and filmed in Tulsa concluded its first season in November. Warning: spoilers ahead for “The Sensitive Kind,” the season finale of The Lowdown on FX.
Throughout the season, The Lowdown depicted many dark events, including several murders, a man being tarred and feathered by a white supremacist group, and the accidental death of an elderly Native man played by Graham Greene, caused by the protagonist Lee Raybon (Ethan Hawke).
These storylines align with the noir influences cited by series creator Sterlin Harjo. However, the season finale deviates from the typical bleak endings common in noir by allowing the protagonists some small victories, though not without consequences.
Lee’s Final Investigation and Deal
Lee relentlessly investigates the suspicious activities of Oklahoma gubernatorial candidate Donald Washberg (Kyle MacLachlan) and the death of Donald’s brother Dale (Tim Blake Nelson). Preparing a final exposé about Dale’s true cause of death, Lee confronts Donald with the facts.
But instead of simply exposing Donald, Lee makes a surprising move by negotiating to return some Washberg family land. This land was originally intended to be sold to a white supremacist group called One Well, but Lee arranges for it to be returned to an Indigenous nation within Oklahoma through a coalition of business leaders.
“That’s all in keeping with the kinds of noir stories that influenced creator Sterlin Harjo.”
“The season finale breaks from the often despairing endings of many noir tales by giving the good guys some victories — albeit at a cost.”
Creative Inspiration
Harjo also shared that musician Robert Plant inspired a key scene, highlighting the blend of cultural elements influencing the show’s narrative and tone.
Summary
The Lowdown’s finale balances noir darkness with hope, as Lee chooses to protect Indigenous lands while uncovering painful truths, reflecting the show’s nuanced take on justice.
Author's summary: The Lowdown season finale offers a rare noir victory by blending cultural justice with personal sacrifice, reshaping familiar genre endings.