Tulsa King follows the story of Dwight Manfredi, a veteran mobster who finds himself unexpectedly transported from the only world he’s ever known in New York City to the unfamiliar streets of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Created by filmmaker Taylor Sheridan and produced by Terence Winter, who previously lent his skills to the acclaimed series The Sopranos, Tulsa King puts Sylvester Stallone in the starring role of Dwight. After over 25 years pulling high-profile jobs for his mafia family, a disagreement with his boss results in Dwight being unceremoniously exiled to start an operation in Tulsa. Left to his own devices in unfamiliar territory, Dwight sets about building a new crew and criminal empire, embracing his unexpected chance to step into the unknown.
In this tale that’s equal parts drama and dark comedy, Sylvester Stallone brings his renowned screen presence to the role of Dwight. Joining him in the show’s reoccurring cast are characters that become vital allies to Dwight in Tulsa, including his canny advisor Bodhi and loyal driver Tyson. Though Season 1 established Dwight’s beginnings in Oklahoma, viewers were left on a cliffhanger with the man now facing new challenges in the episodes of Season 2 that we’ll examine here. From Dwight’s criminal exploits to the interpersonal melodramas and rival opposition emerging, we’ll look at both what’s remained consistent and how Tulsa King has continued to evolve its story in this strange new world its protagonists are forging ahead in.
Out of Water in Tulsa
When we first met Dwight Manfredi in Season 1, he found himself completely out of his element. As a long-time captain in the New York mafia, Tulsa, Oklahoma, must have felt like a foreign planet. But this mob vet took his exile in stride, setting about building a new criminal empire in this unfamiliar city.
The premiere introduced us to Dwight’s unorthodox crew—there was Bodhi, the quirky connoisseur of the budding local cannabis industry. Tyson played the loyal driver and counsel to Dwight. Then there was Mitch, a nice guy running a biker bar who became tangled up in their plans. Through it all, Sylvester Stallone delivered a stellar performance as the ambitious but cautious Dwight navigating this strange new world.
While establishing their ventures in Tulsa, Season 1 found the perfect tonic balance. The interactions between Dwight and his crew were laugh-out-loud funny at times as they approached criminal schemes in unconventional ways. Yet the undercurrent of danger was ever-present from threats like the disruptive biker gang leader Caolan Waltrip. This blend of humor, drama, and pulpy action made for wildly entertaining television.
By the season’s end, Dwight’s ragtag group had turned their bar into a thriving casino and Bodhi’s weed shop into a booming business. However, just as they were gaining momentum, a spanner was thrown in the works when ATF agent Stacy betrayed Dwight. This cliffhanger left viewers ready to see how Dwight would respond in Season 2. All in all, Season 1 was a tour de force introduction to this new crime series that left you wanting more.
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Returning to Roots
The Season 2 premiere served as an opportunity to step back into the world of Tulsa King. After over a year away, viewers were welcomed home with “Back in the Saddle.” Picking up where the cliffhanger left off, Dwight found himself back behind bars facing charges. But it didn’t take long for the man to post bail and return to his crew.
This opening episode was all about reacquainting us with the familiar locales and personalities we’d come to know. We saw Dwight settling back into life at the bar and how the others had carried on in his absence. Though the legal proceedings threatened to derail their activities, business continued as usual per Dwight’s order.
Sylvester Stallone slipped back into the comfortable shoes of Dwight with ease, repossessing his rightful place at the helm. It was satisfying to watch the piece fall back into place under his leadership. Meanwhile, Andrea Savage turned in another tremendous performance in her limited scenes as Stacy, conveying a maelstrom of emotion from the panic in her eyes.
Some criticized the episode for moving slowly while doling out exposition. And it’s true the pulse didn’t pound quite like that climactic conclusion of Season 1. However, reconnecting with old friends doesn’t require fusillades of gunfire. By acquainting us with changes in the dynamics, it laid solid foundations for the conflicts to come.
All in all, “Back in the Saddle” neatly wrapped us in the familiar blanket of this criminal enterprise once more. It makes one wonder what fresh adventures—and adversaries—still lie ahead as Tulsa King rides onwards into the great unknown of its second season.
Breaking New Ground
Tulsa King was in need of fresh faces to challenge Dwight and his crew in Season 2. The premiere was delivered with the introductions of Cal Thresher and Bill Bevilaqua. Played by Neal McDonough and Frank Grillo, respectively, these figures are sure to rock Dwight’s world.
Cal Thresher is head of the Oklahoma medical marijuana trade. Neal McDonough is an experienced hand at portraying villains from the DC and Marvel universes. His talent for radiating sinister confidence makes Cal a formidable opponent. Meanwhile, Bill Bevilaqua calls the shots for organized crime in Kansas City. Mafia boss is a role right in Frank Grillo’s wheelhouse, and he’s shown in roles like The Punisher that he relishes such antagonists.
Their presence signals trouble. Cal sees Dwight as a mere speed bump in his domination of the state’s weed business. Bill believes Dwight trespass on his turf. Together, these barons threaten to quash Dwight’s operations. But one doesn’t beat Sylvester Stallone that easily!
Alongside these major players, the premiere also introduced some new minor players. “Bigfoot” immediately stood out, thanks to his hulking stature and jovial personality. Far from a typical gangster enforcer, Bigfoot’s oversized presence opens lighter-story avenues.
With two crime kingpins gunning for Dwight plus Bigfoot breathing new energy into the crew, Season 2 has brought fresh intrigue. As the season unfolds, expect Dwight’s mettle to be severely tested. But he’s proven a survivor, though holding his ground won’t be easy with forces like Cal and Bill now breaking new ground in Tulsa.
Riding the Wave of Change
As Tulsa King embarked on its second season, Dwight found himself in unfamiliar territory once more. While his first arrest in Oklahoma came as a shock, this time around the man was somewhat more prepared for life behind bars. Nevertheless, the sting of Stacy’s betrayal clearly still lingered.
Reentering the world, Dwight carried himself with added layers of street smarts and weariness. His interactions hinted at rising tensions bubbling just below the surface. But this son of New York refused to lose his cool—at least in public. Instead, Dwight redoubled his efforts to assert control over crews in both Tulsa and Brooklyn.
Gradually, the focus of the show seemed to grow beyond only Dwight’s perspective. Bodhi dealt with changes at the dispensary while honing his trade. Tyson took initiative beyond just driving duties. Even lesser players like Armand and Mitch felt fuller than before. Perhaps this balance reflects the ensemble nature of mob operations demand.
As criminal plans grew bolder, the stakes intensified for all involved. Dwight’s arrest bred ripples of consequence that spread far and challenged members old and new alike. How they rise on the waves of change and whether Dwight’s leadership weather further storms will define Season 2. For now, the crew rides together—wherever the turbulent tides may take them.
Nobody Does It Better
If you’re looking for wise guys and grizzled gangsters, Tulsa King more than holds its own against the greats. While it may lack the flashy cinematography of Yellowstone or sprawling scope of The Sopranos, Sheridan’s latest scores big where it really counts.
At its heart is Sylvester Stallone’s outstanding portrayal of Dwight—a nuanced mobster you can’t help rooting for. His interactions with the lovable misfits of Bodhi and Tyson make for some of TV’s most authentically charming scenes. And the balance of gritty action beats with belly laughs is pitch perfect.
Of course, it helps that the series continually ups the ante. Season 1 set the stage in a fun fish-out-of-water story. Now Season 2 dives headlong into the deep end with antagonists Neal McDonough and Frank Grillo delivering grade-A intimidation. Their clashes with Dwight promise the most explosive drama yet.
At the same time, the show leaves room to flesh out recurring players. From Bigfoot’s hulking charm to Stacy’s emotional turmoil, more story arcs seem primed for takeoff. With creative control finding its footing, only greater heights lie ahead.
While other crime dramas sway ratings by splashing money on flashy extras, Tulsa King wins through its heart. Dwight and company have this viewer’s vote as the best crew in town. I can’t wait to see where their wild adventures lead in Tulsa and beyond.
Getting To The Bottom Of It
Well, after digging into the details here, I feel I’ve hit closer to the heart of what makes Tulsa King tick. From Dwight’s fish-out-of-water origins to the new challenges emerging this season, this show wears its complexities lightly.
At its core remains Stallone’s stellar performance, imbuing Dwight with humor, heart, and grit in equal measure. Supported by a stellar ensemble, the cast continues evolving in fascinating ways. Similarly, the blend of drama, comedy, and pulpy action feels honed to art.
Of course, not everything may land perfectly, but the intentions ring true. And Season 2 shows welcome strides forward while retaining trademark charms. With major players like McDonough and Grillo now in the mix, the conflicts promise explosive conclusions.
All in all, Tulsa King has proven itself a must-see television for any lover of crime genres. Far from a simple knock-off, it carves out unique ground with imaginative scenarios and vivid characters. If future episodes live up to this potential, fans are in for a treat. For those yet to join in the fun, hit play—you won’t regret dipping your toe in Tulsa’s mysterious waters.
The Review
Tulsa King: Season 2
Blending pulpy thrills with offbeat humor, the series stands apart from mob story peers through colorful characters and unpredictable obstacles. Anchored by Stallone's nuanced turns, Season 2 builds compelling new threats around fan favorites. While not without flaws, Sheridan and Winter's latest explores criminality's gray areas with empathy and entertainment. For anyone seeking diverse stories outside of crime drama norms, Tulsa King delivers in style.
PROS
- Stallone delivers a layered, complex lead performance
- Diverse, entertaining ensemble cast of characters
- An intriguing mix of drama, black comedy, and pulpy action
- Season 2 introduces outstanding new antagonists
- Distinct tone sets it apart from other crime shows
CONS
- Some episodic moments feel disconnected from plot
- Legal drama aspects are less engaging than criminal plots
- Occasional scenes wink too hard at the audience
- Not all experimental tonal shifts land perfectly
