Every story has two sides, and Episode 5 of *The Lowdown* (https://decider.com/show/the-lowdown/) is no exception—it’s a rollercoaster that swings wildly between laughter and dread. On one hand, it’s a riotous buddy comedy starring Ethan Hawke and Peter Dinklage as two aging radicals, united by the memory of a fallen friend, whose chaotic road trip is equal parts hilarious and heartwarming. On the other, it’s a chilling exposé of modern law-and-order fascism, where power-hungry men wield badges like weapons, and the line between justice and tyranny blurs into oblivion. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this episode a glass half-full or half-empty? Or is it a mirror reflecting the fractured reality of our times? Let’s dive in.
We’ll start with the lighter side, because who doesn’t love a good laugh? Peter Dinklage’s Wendell is a walking contradiction—a hard-living, weed-smoking punk with a sharp tongue and an even sharper wit. He’s the kind of guy who criticizes everything from Lee’s investigative methods to his bookshelf organization, all while exuding an air of sarcastic charm. Wendell drags Lee (Hawke) on a day-long adventure to honor their late friend Jésus, a tradition that feels more like a battle of wills than a tribute. And this is the part most people miss: their bickering isn’t just antagonism—it’s a love language, a way for two old friends to reconnect through their shared history and mutual disdain for compromise. Think The Big Lebowski meets Breaking Bad, with a dash of Southwestern grit and a whole lot of heart.
Speaking of homages, the episode doesn’t shy away from tipping its hat to pop culture icons. From Wendell’s Walter/The Dude-esque rage against anti-Semites to a cameo by Tina Parker (Saul Goodman’s receptionist from Better Call Saul), the show wears its influences proudly. Parker’s scene as Sandy, a local official charmed into handing over old maps, is a standout moment—her deadpan delivery paired with Wendell’s disingenuous smile makes for a laugh-out-loud exchange. But beneath the humor lies a deeper tension: Wendell’s skepticism about Lee’s investigation into the Washberg brothers begins to crack when armed gunmen show up, forcing him to confront the very real danger his friend is in.
Now, let’s talk about the darker side—the side that’ll leave you questioning everything. Gubernatorial candidate Donald Washberg (Kyle MacLachlan) is a terrifying figure, a man whose rage and entitlement know no bounds. His violent outburst toward Betty Jo (Jeanne Tripplehorne), Lee’s love interest, is just the tip of the iceberg. Here’s the controversial part: the episode paints a damning portrait of systemic corruption, where an all-white boys’ club called “the 46” plots to strip Native American nations of their legal independence. It’s bribery, plain and simple, but the show dares to ask: is this just the way the world works? Or is it a symptom of something far more sinister?
The climax is a visceral punch to the gut. Donald’s police rager—a night of orgiastic exhibitionism, explosions, and gunfire—feels like a descent into hell, reminiscent of True Detective’s biker compound scene. The message is clear: the cops aren’t the heroes; they’re just another gang, and they answer to Donald. It’s a bold statement, one that’s sure to spark debate. Are we too quick to trust those in power? Or is this just the reality we’ve been conditioned to accept?
Amidst all this chaos, there’s a quieter thread: Marty’s (Keith David) attempt at romance. His date with a charming app match (Tisha Campbell) is sweet, but it’s also a reminder of the episode’s central theme—the tension between loyalty and truth. When his date questions his strange relationship with his employer, it’s a mirror held up to Marty’s own blind spots. Thought-provoking question: how often do we ignore red flags in the name of loyalty? And at what cost?
The Lowdown is a show that thrives on its stacked cast, but it’s more than just a collection of talented actors. It’s a sharp, unflinching look at friendship, power, and the gray areas in between. With Hawke, Dinklage, Tripplehorne, MacLachlan, David, and Campbell leading the charge, it’s impossible not to be charmed—even as the story forces you to confront uncomfortable truths. Final question for you: Is The Lowdown a comedy, a thriller, or a wake-up call? Let’s discuss in the comments.
