Sterling Harjo on 'The Lowdown,' Tulsa Noir, and Creative Inspiration

Genesis of 'The Lowdown'

• 💡 The series 'The Lowdown' was inspired by a friend of creator Sterling Harjo, a researcher and journalist in Tulsa who was deeply committed to pursuing truth, often at personal or financial cost.
• 🎯 Harjo, a filmmaker struggling financially while co-parenting, found inspiration in his friend's dedication to truth over monetary gain, reinforcing his own commitment to authentic filmmaking.
• 🔑 The character of Lee Raybon, a rare book seller and journalist obsessed with exposing corruption, embodies this pursuit of truth, even when it leads to conflict.

Tulsa's Unique Landscape and Noir Influence

• 🗺️ Tulsa, Oklahoma, with its history as Indian Territory and a collision of cultures, provides a rich and often unexplored backdrop for storytelling.
• 🎭 Harjo aimed to capture the past and present of Tulsa, drawing from its diverse backgrounds and creating a community-focused narrative, similar to his work on 'Reservation Dogs.'
• 🎬 The series embraces the genre of film noir and neon noir, influenced by directors like Robert Altman and films such as 'The Long Goodbye,' while aiming to add a new perspective.

Character and Community

• 🤝 Lee Raybon's righteousness and unwavering belief in truth earn him the respect and backing of those around him, even when his methods are unconventional.
• 👨‍👧‍👦 Lee's relationship with his 13-year-old daughter is central to his motivation, as he strives to show her the importance of fighting for noble causes and shaping a better future.
• 🏘️ 'The Lowdown,' like 'Reservation Dogs,' focuses on the community and the ensemble of characters that make it up, rather than solely on the protagonist.

Creative Process and Collaborations

• ✍️ Harjo shares a close bond with Ethan Hawke, stemming from a shared passion for art, music, and film, which began even before adapting 'The Lowdown.'
• 🎸 On-set camaraderie is highlighted, with musicians like Hawke and Tim Blake Nelson engaging in jam sessions between takes, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
• 🎭 Killer Mike is praised for his serious approach to his role as Cyrus, overcoming initial nervousness to deliver a memorable performance, with Harjo ensuring he wouldn't 'look stupid' on screen.

The Art of the Hang and Historical Truth

• ⏳ The 'art of the hang' refers to observing characters' behavior when they are not actively engaged in dramatic action, focusing on their everyday being and interactions.
• 🚌 This concept, inspired by filmmakers like Jim Jarmusch, emphasizes the importance of quiet moments and authentic human behavior, reminiscent of Harjo's rural upbringing.
• 📜 Harjo stresses the critical importance of confronting and understanding the truth of history, citing the Tulsa race massacre as an example of a past event that was suppressed but is crucial for healing and present-day understanding.