yellowstone season 1 episode 1 recap wikipedia

Yellowstone Season 1 Episode 1 Recap: 'Daybreak'

The first episode of Yellowstone, titled 'Daybreak,' introduces viewers to the Dutton clan, a powerful family who own the sprawling Yellowstone Ranch in Montana. The show's patriarch, John Dutton (Kevin Costner), is ruthlessly protective of his land and wields significant power over the town and his children's lives.

The episode begins by showcasing the vast landscape of the ranch, with big sweeping shots of the beautiful scenery and a soundtrack dedicated to country and bluegrass music. The show's atmosphere is quintessential Western, complete with horses and cowboy hats everywhere.

The Dutton family is complex, with four adult children: Lee (Dave Annable), Beth (Kelly Reilly), Jamie (Wes Bentley), and Kayce (Luke Grimes). Each of them has their own struggles and conflicts, which are slowly revealed throughout the episode.

John's youngest son, Kayce, lives on the nearby Indian Reservation with his Native American wife, Monica (Kelsey Asbille), and their son, Tate (Brecken Merrill). Meanwhile, Thomas Rainwater (Gil Birmingham) is elected the Chairman of the local Native American tribe, although he does little beyond sniping at those around him in the first two episodes.

The episode also introduces Dan Jenkins (Danny Huston), a developer who wants to build subdivisions next to the Dutton ranch. John is determined to stop the project, and Jamie successfully holds off a land developer's claim of eminent domain on 30,000 acres of the ranch. However, John remains unsatisfied with the outcome.

Throughout the episode, there are plodding exchanges and vague conversations punctuated by bursts of violence that don't always feel earned. The pacing is uneven, but the show's setting and atmosphere are undeniably captivating.

Overall, 'Daybreak' sets the stage for a dramatic and intense series about family power struggles, land disputes, and personal conflicts. With its strong performances, beautiful scenery, and engaging storylines, Yellowstone has all the makings of a successful Western drama.

Yellowstone season 1 episode 1 recap wikipedia