[This article contains significant spoilers from the penultimate episode of 1923 season two, “The Mountain Teeth of Monsters.” ]
High Stakes and Heartbreak in 1923
In the gripping penultimate episode of season two of 1923, titled “The Mountain Teeth of Monsters,” the stakes escalated dramatically as seven characters met tragic ends. Creator Taylor Sheridan has set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling season finale, but it is essential to take a moment to reflect on the incredible losses we witnessed.
Michael Spears and Jeremy Gauna stepped into the shoes of significant characters Runs His Horse and Pete Plenty Clouds, respectively, following the unforeseen passing of Cole Brings Plenty, the original actor in the role. Cole’s death, which occurred shortly after the release of season one, left a void in the series and in the narrative thread connecting the storylines of 1923 and Yellowstone, where Mo Brings Plenty, played by Cole’s uncle, serves as a vital character.
Emotional Impact: Reflections on Loss
Conversations with Spears and Gauna, regarding their characters’ fates, reveal deep emotional connections to the story and the circumstances surrounding their characters. As Gauna shared, “I’m emotional even talking about it now. Reading the script was very hard because of everything that happened in real life.”
The episode resumes following a tense cliffhanger, where Pete Plenty Clouds becomes embroiled in a deadly shootout with those pursuing Teonna, who escapes a harrowing past at a Catholic Church boarding school. The sequence unfolds dramatically, leading to the losses of both Pete and Runs His Horse in a shocking display of violence. Teonna, in a fierce showdown with Father Renaud, ultimately takes her revenge, solidifying her role as a survivor.
Behind the Scenes: Conversations That Matter
During an enlightening conversation about their roles, Spears and Gauna expressed the unique emotional weight they felt during the filming. Gauna commented on the authenticity of their performances, stating, “everything you hear is a hundred percent real. Because at that moment, I can attest that Aminah felt this way; she saw Cole laying there.”
Both actors shared their hopes that their characters would contribute to a lasting legacy of Native representation in media. Spears articulated, “What happens to us on a micro level on 1923 was happening on a macro level to everybody at that time.” The cultural significance of the narrative resonates powerfully within their performances.
Cultural Significance: Personal Contributions to Character
As a Lakota actor, Spears infused his character with meaningful cultural elements, including the incorporation of traditional attire and language in his portrayal of Runs His Horse. He collaborated closely with the wardrobe department to ensure authenticity. “I asked them to add elk teeth to my vest,” Spears explained, reflecting his commitment to not only his character’s historical accuracy but also to honoring his heritage.
In contrast, Gauna focused on preserving the essence of Cole Brings Plenty’s portrayal, ensuring that the character of Pete would resonate with both existing and new audiences. His respect for legacy guided his performance, as he aimed to provide depth and authenticity.
Final Thoughts: The Aftermath of Tragedy
The characters’ untimely deaths raise poignant questions about freedom and survival for Teonna. As Spears noted, their sacrifices could serve as motivation for her to continue fighting, a sentiment that aligns with the broader narrative of resilience among Indigenous peoples. Teonna’s evolution into a stronger character poised to continue her legacy is crucial not just for her story, but for the audience’s understanding of the historical context that frames this narrative.
Gauna echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the contemporary relevance of their stories. “That awareness is going to create change and a positive movement,” he stated, alluding to broader societal issues faced by Indigenous populations today. Their deaths are not just plot points; they symbolize a call to action and reflection.
Anticipation for the Season Finale
The season two finale of 1923 will air on Paramount+ this Friday. As the story reaches its climax, audiences may expect to reflect on the powerful themes introduced in this impactful season. Stay tuned for more coverage, including an exclusive postmortem interview with Darren Mann regarding the dramatic implications of episode six.