When Tulsa King premiered, it brought a unique twist to the crime drama genre by blending mob themes with a classic fish-out-of-water story. Starring Sylvester Stallone as Dwight “The General” Manfredi, a seasoned New York mobster, Tulsa King dives into the life of a crime boss uprooted and sent to establish a new empire in Tulsa, Oklahoma—a far cry from the bustling streets of New York City.
Created by Taylor Sheridan (*Yellowstone*, Sicario) and Terence Winter (*The Sopranos*, Boardwalk Empire), the series marries Sheridan’s knack for gritty landscapes with Winter’s sharp insight into the mob genre, creating a darkly humorous yet intense drama. Here’s why Tulsa King has quickly captured the attention of audiences.
Stallone’s Return to Television
Stallone’s portrayal of Dwight Manfredi is one of the show’s highlights. Known for his action-packed roles, Stallone brings gravitas and a sense of humor to the character, marking his first regular television role. Manfredi is both tough and surprisingly charming, navigating the cultural and generational shift from his native New York to Tulsa. At 75, Stallone’s character is a veteran of the mob life, and his old-school methods are put to the test in the quirky, tight-knit community of Tulsa.
A Unique Setting for a Crime Drama
Crime dramas are usually set in cities like New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles, but Tulsa King flips the script. Setting the show in Tulsa adds a fresh dynamic, blending crime elements with the rustic charm and complexities of small-town America. The series explores how this unexpected setting clashes with Manfredi’s lifestyle, as he tries to build his criminal empire in a place where organized crime is almost unheard of.
The Storyline: Redemption, Loyalty, and Family
In Tulsa King, Dwight is sent to Tulsa after a 25-year prison sentence, during which he stayed loyal to his New York family. However, rather than being rewarded with a prestigious role in New York, he’s sent away to Oklahoma—a move that feels more like a punishment than a fresh start. As he attempts to set up an unlikely criminal operation in Tulsa, Dwight’s journey becomes one of self-discovery, balancing old loyalties with his desire for independence.
This story is as much about redemption and rebuilding as it is about crime. Dwight’s attempt to start over hints at deeper themes of loyalty, family, and whether it’s possible to change after a lifetime in organized crime.
Blending Humor with Drama
While Tulsa King is full of suspense and action, it also has a unique humor that sets it apart from typical crime dramas. Dwight’s interactions with locals, from quirky townsfolk to unprepared recruits, add a comedic edge that keeps the show from becoming overly dark. His attempts to use old-school mob tactics on small-town businesses make for both funny and tense situations, as he learns that Tulsa doesn’t operate quite like New York.
Dwight’s Unlikely Allies
Throughout the show, Dwight finds himself assembling a team of unlikely allies, from local business owners to outsiders with their own rough pasts. These characters offer a grounded look into Tulsa’s underbelly and add dimension to the series, as they navigate complex relationships with both Dwight and the town. These relationships bring emotional depth, showing how crime impacts everyone involved, even in small, unexpected places.
Why Tulsa King Is Worth Watching
In Tulsa King, crime, drama, and humor blend together against a rural American backdrop, creating a unique viewing experience. Stallone’s compelling performance and the creative storytelling from Sheridan and Winter make it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas, as well as those who enjoy fresh takes on traditional genres. It’s a show that reminds us that even the hardest criminals seek meaning and redemption, no matter where they end up.
