Ep 2. Kill the Messenger

As the title suggests, "Kill the Messenger" is an intense and dramatic episode of the TV series Yellowstone. In the second episode of season one, the storyline delves deeper into John Dutton's family struggles, the political and environmental issues surrounding his ranch and the complicated relationships of his family members.

The episode's opening scene sets the tone for what is a gripping and thrilling hour of TV drama. A messenger, tasked with delivering a message to John Dutton, is surrounded by a group of unknown bandits. What follows is a brutal and violent scene that is not for the faint-hearted. It sets the stage for the rest of the episode as the Dutton family scrambles to figure out who orchestrated the violent ambush.

In the sophomore episode of Yellowstone, viewers also get to witness more of Kevin Costner's masterful acting as John Dutton. He is faced with new challenges, both personal and professional, that force him to juggle several situations all at once. His relationship with his estranged wife is complicated further by a looming divorce, and he must also navigate potential land deals with politicians that may compromise his ranch's land and water rights.

As the story unfolds, new characters are introduced, including a Native American reservation chief and an ambitious political candidate. The chief brings a cultural perspective that adds depth to the story and also raises a question to ponder: who really owns the land? Meanwhile, the candidate's involvement in the story is intriguing as John Dutton weighs the cost of his support in his campaign for governor and how it will affect his family's interests in the long run.

The family ties of the Dutton family are tested again as John's daughter Beth clashes with ranch hand Rip and also with her powerful father. There are small hints at her past, leaving viewers with a desire to know more about her characterization and back story. Another storyline focuses on John's son Jamie, who is a highly intelligent lawyer that is seemingly trying to balance between helping his family and his political ambitions.

Overall, Yellowstone season 1 episode 2 is a fantastic follow up to the pilot. Viewers will find themselves thoroughly engrossed in the heart-racing drama as they watch the Dutton family fight for what they believe is rightfully theirs. The themes of family, politics, and the preservation of culture are gracefully intertwined, creating a tapestry of emotions that leaves viewers wanting more.

In sum, if you are a fan of intense and dramatic TV shows with a riveting storyline and deep, well-developed characters, then Yellowstone will not disappoint you.