Story: Dwight Manfredi, a reformed gangster who has served a 25-year prison sentence, embarks on a relentless quest to reclaim everything he lost during his time behind bars. Exiled to Tulsa by his own gang, he is now determined to build his own empire.
Review: In ‘Tulsa King,’ Sylvester Stallone showcases undeniable evidence of thoroughly relishing his character. With his intense demeanour, he delivers a captivating performance that effortlessly blends action and humour, resulting in a highly satisfying experience. Portraying an aging gangster grappling with a world transformed by smartphones and credit cards, Stallone flawlessly masters his character. While not traditionally recognized for his acting prowess, this cleverly scripted series and his portrayal tick all the boxes for an engaging and enjoyable entertainment.
‘Tulsa King’ is a series that evokes a nostalgic charm reminiscent of the gangster films from the ’80s and ’90s, catering to a wide range of audiences. This crime drama follows a straightforward narrative approach, devoid of any pretences, with its sole purpose being to entertain—and it accomplishes this feat admirably. Despite the presence of menacing gangsters, the show maintains a light-hearted tone, largely due to the likable nature of its characters. As you witness Stallone’s character grappling with the rapid changes that have occurred in the world over the past 25 years, you can’t help but root for him. The series maintains a thrilling pace, ensuring viewers remain thoroughly engaged throughout the events.
The series revolves around Dwight Manfredi (Sylvester Stallone), a man who emerges into the world following a lengthy 25-year prison sentence. Upon reuniting with his gang, he discovers that times have changed, and the people he once knew are no longer the same. Disheartened by the lack of appreciation for his sacrifice in saving a friend, he finds himself presented with a deal. As part of the agreement, he is sent to Tulsa, Oklahoma, with the freedom to run his business as he sees fit. Once in Tulsa, Manfredi employs coercive tactics to extract protection money from Bodhi (Martin Starr), the proprietor of a cannabis dispensary. Taking charge of his affairs from the comfort of a luxurious hotel, Manfredi gradually expands his illicit empire, aided by Tyson (Jay Will), his trusted driver and right-hand man.
Stallone mesmerizes with a captivating portrayal in this series, exuding an enchanting old-world charm and evoking a delightful sense of nostalgia. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to consider this role as one of his finest to date. His performance hits the mark, effortlessly blending comedic timing with action. Particularly, the scenes featuring Stallone engaging in amusing conversations with the receptionist about the Uber App and openly proclaiming “Cash is king” at a courier center are bound to elicit chuckles. Jay Will, as Tyson, fits seamlessly into the role of his loyal driver and trusted confidant, infusing the series with additional comedic brilliance.
‘Tulsa King’ starts off with a slow pace, but succeeds in captivating you with its high entertainment value and a fast-paced narrative. The series centers entirely around Stallone’s character, and he masterfully delivers a compelling performance that hits all the right notes. ‘Tulsa King’ can best be described as a stimulating blend of dark comedy, absurdity, and an irresistible hook that keeps you invested from the start. It also delves into the journey of an individual who finds himself adrift after spending a quarter-century behind bars, slowly navigating and trying to find his place in a transformed society. Show creator Taylor Sheridan deserves praise for skillfully incorporating Stallone’s strengths into his character. This crime drama may be unconventional, but it undeniably delivers an enthralling and enjoyable experience.