Netflix’s latest Western series, Territory, has been turning heads for its striking similarities to the hit show Yellowstone. Created by Taylor Sheridan, Yellowstone has redefined the neo-Western genre, drawing audiences with its gripping family drama and stunning landscapes. Territory, featuring an Australian and New Zealand cast, offers a fresh take on familiar themes while echoing some core elements of its predecessor. Let’s dive into the eight biggest similarities that link these two compelling series.
1. Succession Stories at Their Core
At the heart of both Territory and Yellowstone lies a classic family saga centered on the struggle for succession. The Lawsons and the Duttons have inherited vast territories, with both families embroiled in conflicts regarding their legacies.
- In Territory, Marianne Station is touted as the world’s largest cattle station, while the Yellowstone Ranch stands tall as one of the largest in the United States. Colin Lawson and John Dutton both inherit their respective ranches from their fathers, continuing a long-standing family tradition.
- As both patriarchs face aging and the potential loss of their family legacy, they are forced to confront the reality that their ideal heirs may not be fit to lead. This situation creates an urgent and intense conflict for both families, driving the narrative forward.
2. The Catalyst of Tragedy
Both shows kick off with a significant family death, setting the stage for the unfolding drama. The loss of a key family member catalyzes the main conflict, forcing characters to confront their roles and responsibilities.
- In Territory, Daniel Lawson’s mysterious death creates a void in leadership, prompting family members to return and reassess their roles at Marianne Station.
- Similarly, Yellowstone begins with the death of Lee Dutton, a character whose commitment to the family business leaves a noticeable absence. Both events serve as a rallying point for family members to reconnect, albeit with underlying tensions simmering.
3. Indigenous Communities in the Spotlight
A crucial aspect of both series is their treatment of Indigenous communities and the impact of colonization.
- In Territory, the Lawsons face pressure from an Indigenous community that has historical ties to the land, mirroring Yellowstone‘s exploration of similar themes through characters like Chief Thomas Rainwater.
- Both shows highlight the conflicts that arise between landowners and Indigenous populations, emphasizing the cultural and historical complexities of land ownership. This thematic parallel adds depth to the narrative, making the stories more relevant in today’s socio-political climate.
4. Aging Patriarchs with Flawed Leadership
Both Colin Lawson and John Dutton are portrayed as aging patriarchs grappling with their legacies in a rapidly changing world.
- John Dutton is a fiercely protective leader, battling corporate entities like Market Equities while trying to maintain control over his ranch.
- Colin Lawson, though less sharp than John, is portrayed as a stubborn man struggling to adapt to the evolving landscape of ranch management. Both characters embody a traditional masculinity that faces scrutiny as the world around them changes.
5. Complicated Father-Son Relationships
The dynamics between fathers and sons are fraught with tension in both shows, particularly with characters like Graham Lawson and Jamie Dutton.
- Graham, despite his competence and understanding of the family business, seeks his father’s approval but often finds himself at odds with Colin’s outdated views of masculinity.
- Jamie Dutton shares a similar plight; constantly battling for his father’s recognition, Jamie’s storyline delves into themes of betrayal and self-worth. This ongoing struggle reflects a universal theme of familial expectations and the desire for validation.
6. The Prodigal Son Archetype
Both series feature a “prodigal son” character who embodies the ideal heir but is reluctant to embrace that role.
- Marshall Lawson mirrors Kayce Dutton in many ways. Both are tough, scrappy characters who have spent time away from their families, learning to fend for themselves.
- However, neither character shows a strong desire to take on the mantle of leadership. Their respective romantic partners, Sharnie and Monica, caution them about the potential darkness that could come with becoming part of the family business, highlighting the moral dilemmas inherent in their legacies.
7. Corporate Threats to Family Legacies
Another striking similarity is the presence of external corporate forces that threaten the existence of the family ranches.
- In Territory, Sandra Kirby and her corporate ambitions put pressure on the Lawsons, seeking to modernize and profit from the land.
- Similarly, Yellowstone features Market Equities as a relentless adversary trying to seize control of the Dutton land. The conflict between these family legacies and corporate greed serves as a central theme in both series, raising questions about the future of land ownership and the preservation of heritage.
8. Strong Female Characters Shaping the Narrative
While both shows feature strong male leads, they also present formidable female characters who play critical roles in the storylines.
- Emily Lawson in Territory has a complex relationship with her family, akin to Beth Dutton’s fierce loyalty and resilience in Yellowstone.
- Both women exhibit a blend of toughness and vulnerability, challenging traditional gender roles while navigating the patriarchal landscapes of their respective families. Their journeys add rich layers to the narratives, showcasing the strength and complexity of women in a male-dominated world.
Conclusion
In essence, Territory may draw inspiration from Yellowstone, but it carves out its own identity with a unique cultural lens. The themes of family legacy, generational conflict, and the struggles against external threats resonate deeply in both series. Whether it’s the intense familial bonds or the exploration of socio-political issues, viewers find a rich tapestry of storytelling that engages and challenges them.
