Since its debut in 2018, *Yellowstone*, created by Taylor Sheridan, has established itself as a benchmark in the Western genre. With the original series concluding, Sheridan is set on expanding this universe through various spinoffs, keeping the allure of the Dutton family alive for audiences well into the future.
Beyond *Yellowstone* and its associated spinoffs, Sheridan’s body of work showcases a clear reverence for classic Western storytelling. Although interest in Westerns had diminished over the years, Sheridan rejuvenated the genre by drawing inspiration from past legends. Notably, Clint Eastwood is one such icon whose influence can be traced in Sheridan’s creations, particularly with the creation of *Yellowstone*.
Influence of Clint Eastwood on Taylor Sheridan’s *Yellowstone*
Eastwood’s Westerns: A Subversive Legacy
Clint Eastwood’s Western films have been pivotal in shaping the genre, and Sheridan openly acknowledges *Unforgiven* as a significant inspiration. The plot follows Will Munny (played by Eastwood) as he embarks on one final bounty hunt, driven by the need to support his family. What sets *Unforgiven* apart is its profound exploration of the psychological impact of Munny’s past life, resulting in a film with a reflective and somber tone.
Much like Eastwood’s morally ambiguous Will Munny, the characters in *Yellowstone* inhabit complex moral landscapes. As *Unforgiven* streams on Paramount+, it is an essential watch for those interested in understanding Sheridan’s creative influences. Sheridan himself noted in a 2022 profile with The Atlantic that *Unforgiven* portrayed a narrative where “the sheriff is a bully and the hero is a drunken, vicious killer,” which reflects similar nuances in *Yellowstone*’s character portrayals.
Traditional Westerns often painted a clear-cut picture of good versus evil, but Sheridan, much like Eastwood, seeks to portray a more nuanced reality. The moral complexities of the Dutton family’s choices highlight the intricate gray areas between heroes and villains, aligning with the message conveyed in *Unforgiven*.
Musical Homage: *Yellowstone* and *Unforgiven*
Incorporation of “Claudia’s Theme”in *Yellowstone*
Further showcasing his homage to *Unforgiven*, Sheridan utilized “Claudia’s Theme”from the film in the first season of *Yellowstone*. This poignant musical piece enhances the emotional depth of Season 1, Episode 6, harmonizing beautifully with the breathtaking landscapes of the Yellowstone ranch and the emotional struggles faced by the characters.
*Unforgiven* garnered four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Clint Eastwood. In an unexpected turn of events, Sheridan revealed to Cinema Blend that he originally approached Eastwood with the intention of using the theme, not expecting a positive response. Highlighting the impact *Unforgiven* had on his aspirations, Sheridan described using the theme in *Yellowstone* as a “90-second homage”to Eastwood, ultimately receiving Eastwood’s approval for its use.
Casting Decisions Inspired by Eastwood’s Work
Sheridan’s Casting Choice Fueled by *American Sniper*
In another connection to Clint Eastwood, Taylor Sheridan’s casting decisions for *Yellowstone* were influenced by Eastwood’s film *American Sniper*. Luke Grimes, who portrays Kayce Dutton, previously played a Navy SEAL named Marc Lee in the 2014 film. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Grimes confirmed that his role in *American Sniper* captured Sheridan’s attention and paved the way for his role in *Yellowstone*.
Grimes’s portrayal of Marc Lee showcases his ability to convey intense emotional depth, a quality that resonates well with his character Kayce Dutton, who also grapples with the aftermath of his military experiences. This casting highlights how Sheridan continues to draw on Eastwood’s cinematic legacy, further enriching the character dynamics within *Yellowstone*.
**Sources**: The Atlantic, Cinema Blend, The Hollywood Reporter