Sylvester Stallone in Tulsa King

Vonbon Hill

2 min read

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24-11-2024

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Sylvester Stallone, the iconic action star known for roles like Rocky Balboa and John Rambo, has traded his boxing gloves and machine guns for a suit and a shrewd business acumen in Paramount+'s new series, Tulsa King. This isn't your typical Stallone fare; instead, it's a surprisingly nuanced and darkly comedic crime drama that leverages his undeniable screen presence in a fresh and compelling way.

From Prison to the Wild West

The series follows Dwight "The General" Manfredi, a New York mobster recently released from prison after a 25-year sentence. Instead of the warm welcome he expected back in the Big Apple, he's unceremoniously shipped off to Tulsa, Oklahoma – a city far removed from the familiar power structures he's used to. This unexpected relocation throws him into a world he doesn't understand, forcing him to navigate unfamiliar territory and build a new criminal enterprise from the ground up.

A Different Kind of Mobster

Stallone's performance as Dwight is a masterclass in understated intensity. He plays the character with a weary cynicism, seasoned with flashes of his trademark bravado. This Dwight isn't the invincible action hero we've seen before; he's vulnerable, occasionally clumsy, and often out of his depth. This vulnerability, however, is what makes him so captivating. He’s a man forced to adapt, to learn the ropes in a new environment, and to rely on his wits more than his fists.

More Than Just Guns and Gangsters

While the series retains elements of the classic mobster genre – betrayal, violence, and power struggles are certainly present – Tulsa King also offers a surprising amount of humor and character development. The supporting cast is equally strong, with each character adding their own unique flavor to the narrative. The show expertly blends the gritty realism of organized crime with moments of unexpected levity, creating a compelling viewing experience that doesn't shy away from darker themes.

A Fresh Take on a Familiar Genre

Tulsa King proves that even seasoned actors can reinvent themselves and find success in unexpected roles. Stallone delivers a performance that is both familiar and entirely new, demonstrating a range that solidifies his status as a true cinematic icon. The series is a welcome addition to the crime drama landscape, offering a fresh perspective on a well-worn genre. If you're looking for a show with compelling characters, sharp writing, and a healthy dose of dark humor, Tulsa King is definitely worth checking out.