Western fans will be pleased to learn that there is a popular series of the genre on two streaming services. With a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the show has been hailed as a “masterpiece”, but Netflix viewers will be disappointed that it is not on the streaming platform. Deadwood is an American Western TV series created, produced, and largely written by David Milch. Set in 1870s Deadwood, South Dakota, the series first aired in 2004.
The series synopsis reads: “Deadwood is set in a mining town that was not part of any U.S. state or territory in the post-Civil War years, and thus was literally lawless. Deadwood attracts people looking to get rich after a huge gold strike, as well as those looking to capitalise on the lack of organised law in the town, built on land stolen from the Sioux.”
It stars Timothy Olyphant, Ian McShane, Molly Parker, Jim Beaver, and Brad Dourif, among many others.
Deadwood was met with continuous praise throughout its three-year run and has been hailed by many critics. Its 92% rating from the critics on Rotten Tomatoes reflects that. Their consensus on the first season states: “Deadwood’s absorbing first season presents a vivid, un-sanitised depiction of a frontier town that stakes its claim alongside other classic entries in the Western genre.”
A top critic said: “Easily the best thing to hit HBO since Six Feet Under… It’s hard to believe that — in Milch’s hands — a western, of all things, could feel so original and inspired.”
Another critic added: “A cast of flamboyant characters, including Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane, make up a colorful and lively world where anything can happen. Which is precisely why it’s so much fun to watch.”
One audience reviewer described the series as a “masterpiece” adding that there was “great character development”.
Another viewer said: “This is, in my opinion the greatest series of all time. Hands down. A masterclass in dialogue, and the pacing and character development is just perfect.”
Deadwood may not be available on Netflix but you can stream on Amazon Prime and the BFI streaming platform.