[This episode contains spoilers from 1923 season two, episode four, “Journey the Rivers of Iron.” ]
Zane Davis Returns to 1923
The critically acclaimed series 1923 has made waves once again, bringing back Zane Davis, portrayed by Brian Geraghty. Known as the ranch foreman in this gripping Yellowstone prequel, Zane faced a harrowing injury in the previous episode. A local physician revealed the grim prognosis, necessitating trepanation—drilling a hole into Zane’s skull without anesthesia to drain excess blood. This injury stemmed from his arrest due to Montana’s antiquated anti-miscegenation laws, which until 1953, criminalized interracial marriages, including Zane’s union with Alice Chow, played by Joy Osmanski. In a surprising twist, Zane’s surgery is a success, allowing him to walk again and resolutely inform Jacob Dutton (Harrison Ford) of his intentions to pursue justice. Following this gripping episode, Geraghty spoke to THR about the making of the brain surgery scene and the personal significance of Zane’s narrative.
Insights from Brian Geraghty
You’re not dead!
Not yet.
On Zane’s Story Development
Geraghty shared his reactions upon hearing about Zane’s storyline during pre-season discussions with 1923 creator Taylor Sheridan. Initially auditioning for another character, Geraghty was thrilled when the opportunity to portray Zane arose. Sheridan revealed the character’s involvement in an interracial marriage, offering a unique and deeply personal arc for Geraghty. Reflecting on the scripts he reviewed during the SAG-AFTRA strike, Geraghty expressed eagerness to explore the storyline’s trajectory, which combined authentic historical context with profound emotional depth.
Researching the Historical Context
Delving into the historical framework surrounding Zane’s family dynamics, Geraghty found varying legalities surrounding interracial marriages based on geographic location. In his research, he discovered the disturbing reality that while some women were deemed acceptable marital partners, others were not, leading to severe consequences for those who defied these arbitrary rules. This realization resonated deeply with Geraghty, enriching his performance with a personal understanding of the stakes involved.
Personal Connections
The storyline resonates on a personal level for Geraghty, with his wife, Genesis Rodriguez, being Hispanic. He admires how Sheridan addresses the nuances of marriage laws in the context of Zane’s struggle, reflecting on the contemporary implications of these historical injustices. As Geraghty embarks on the journey of learning Spanish, he deepens his appreciation for the cultural narratives embodied in his character, finding it crucial to impart emotional authenticity to Zane’s journey.
The Dynamics of Family and Professional Life
In a humorous revelation, Geraghty discussed the unique intersection of his personal and professional life within the Sheridan universe, shedding light on the collaborative atmosphere that has allowed his wife to flourish in a separate role on another series created by Sheridan. This intermingling of characters within the Sheridan cinematic universe has provided richer storytelling opportunities and a supportive creative environment.
Filming the Surgery Scene
So this episode gets pretty gory —
your scene partner is almost vomiting on you as he (Jack Dutton, played by Darren Mann) watches a doctor drill a hole into your head to save you. What was it like filming Zane’s 1923-era brain surgery?
Delving into the intense shooting of the surgery scene, Geraghty recounted the meticulous preparation that took place, including working with special effects to create a lifelike head prop designed for the surgery scene. He expressed that, while the physical portrayal was challenging, the real focus was on capturing the emotional essence of the moment. Working alongside seasoned actors like Darren Mann and Harrison Ford helped to ground the scene, heightening the emotional stakes as Zane faces life-changing consequences.
The Historical Reality of Survival
When discussing the likelihood of survival for someone undergoing such an operation in the early 20th century, Geraghty humorously noted the grim reality but appreciated the artistic liberty taken for dramatic effect in the show. He conveyed a sense of camaraderie among the cast and crew, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that drove the performance and enhancing the overall quality of storytelling.
Moving Forward with Zane’s Character
As Zane embarks on a path toward justice—distinguished from mere revenge—Geraghty articulated the complexities of his character’s motivations. Viewing justice as a noble pursuit, Zane’s evolution throughout season two promises to engage viewers on a deeper level. Geraghty hints at an epic journey for Zane, buoyed by the series’ weekly release format, allowing for a richer storytelling experience that culminates in significant character development.
Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations
Reflecting on his role, Geraghty expressed a newfound appreciation for playing a protagonist and its emotional weight, while he also eagerly anticipates the chance to explore darker characters once again. He shared his excitement about the skills he’s acquired, from horseback riding to stunts, emphasizing the unique experiences afforded by the film industry. As for his next steps, Geraghty remains open to opportunities, maintaining connections with past collaborators, and looking forward to future projects.
1923 delivers new episodes of its second season every Friday on Paramount+. Stay updated with THR’s ongoing coverage and interviews.