THE MADISON is the brainchild of Taylor Sheridan (YELLOWSTONE, LANDMAN, TULSA KING, 1923). It is the story of how one affluent family navigates loss and grief between NYC and a small town in Montana. It is a season filled with pain and regret. Yet, it also demonstrates how differently everyone handles the death of a loved one.Â
THE MADISON gives its viewers permission to cry, scream, fu**, smile, and laugh right beside each character. It is an emotional roller coaster that is bound together by the majestic beauty of Montana’s landscape and the gentle Madison River. Sheridan dedicated the season to Robert Redford and his love of spacious, spectacular scenery and big skies.
At the helm are Stacy (Michelle Pfeiffer) and Preston (Kurt Russell). Both demonstrated fine acting moments. Both gave quiet, Intentional performances that stood out in every scene. They were believable, and that says a lot coming from me when dealing with a profound death. Russell and Pfeiffer drew me in and made me want to know more. They complemented each other and gave audiences the gift of witnessing a loving marriage amid all their core differences and values. Not many would succeed at this in everyday life.Â
The entire ensemble was great. Abigail, Russell, Paige, Bridgette, Macy, Paul, Davis, Lilliana, and Dr. Yorn brought the story full circle with their authentically driven characterizations of people we might know. At times, the pacing was slow. It moved with the rhythm of a winding river. This is not an action-packed series. It required patience to see it through. The steady beat took me in. Not everyone will be. It definitely has the feel of the YELLOWSTONE saga in modern times.Â
Season two has already been filmed. I want to know where the story ends up for every member of the Clyburn family. Some may be predictable, but I’m hoping others will grow up emotionally.Â
THE MADISON is streaming on Paramount+.
