Overview: Set against the dynamic tapestry of the 1970s Southwest, Duster follows a bold getaway driver caught in a relentless cycle of crime. Tensions escalate with the arrival of a determined young agent intent on dismantling the crime ring he’s entangled in.
Review: Remember the thrill of discovering Lost back in 2004? It introduced us to a multitude of unforgettable characters, particularly Josh Holloway, who famously portrayed the charismatic Sawyer. Despite his subsequent appearances in films like Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol and shows such as Yellowstone, his talent has, at times, gone unnoticed in Hollywood. Enter Duster, a gripping new series brought to life by Holloway alongside Lost co-creator J.J. Abrams and writer LaToya Morgan. This series not only positions Holloway in the lead but also immerses him in a world bursting with 1970s nostalgia and exhilarating action, making it a must-see this summer.
Duster introduces us to Jim Ellis, portrayed by Holloway, in the bustling city of Phoenix in 1972. However, Jim is not merely a henchman for the crime lord Ezra Saxton, played by Keith David; he is a man on a path to redemption after the tragic loss of his brother two years earlier. Balancing his relationships and dangerous escapades, Jim’s life takes a dramatic turn when Nina Hayes (Rachel Hilson), the first Black female FBI agent fresh from Quantico, arrives with a mission: to take Saxton down. Despite local authorities standing in her way, Nina partners with a discredited Navajo agent, Adan (Asivak Koostachin), not only aiming to dismantle the criminal enterprise but also to seek justice for Jim’s brother’s mysterious death. As Jim confronts loyalty versus truth, audiences are taken on a thrilling ride filled with unexpected developments.
What sets Duster apart is its skillful blend of retro nostalgia with modern storytelling. As Jim fires up his Plymouth Duster, viewers are reminded of classic road movies like Smokey and the Bandit, mingling it with the high-octane pulse seen in films such as Baby Driver and Bullitt. Hilson is especially notable as she portrays a determined young woman navigating a male-dominated field, adding layers of complexity and depth to her character. As her journey leads her deeper into the underworld through her connection with Jim, the tension thickens—tying in real historical figures, including Richard Nixon and Elvis Presley, without veering into awkward dramatizations.
At the core of the series is Josh Holloway, whose Southern charm breathes life into Jim Ellis. The fictional version of Phoenix is filled with vibrant personalities, from Sunglasses (played by Patrick Warburton), a quirky Elvis enthusiast, to the corrupt cop Groomes (Donal Logue). As Jim navigates this colorful yet perilous environment, his relationships evolve, particularly with his father Wade (Corbin Bernsen) and niece Luna (Adriana Aluna Martinez). Holloway shines in every scene, whether he’s charming women or engaging in exhilarating car chases. He portrays Jim as a nuanced character—not your typical hero, but a flawed Vietnam veteran striving for a brighter future for his loved ones.
This series marks J.J. Abrams’ return to television writing for the first time since the short-lived Undercovers in 2010, and it also serves as his first writing project since Star Wars: Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker. Partnering with LaToya Morgan, they weave a compelling narrative brought to life by directors Steph Green and Darren Grant, who capture the stunning landscapes of the Southwest in vibrant detail. The series is complemented by a nostalgic soundtrack, enhancing the overall experience. While the elaborate plot invites further exploration, it never feels tedious. Abrams and Morgan have tailored a perfect showcase for Holloway, presenting a role that seems destined for him.
Duster generates anticipation for a possible second season, with its finale hinting at exciting future storylines. While the chemistry between Holloway and Hilson is undeniable, I can’t help but think a more concentrated focus on Jim Ellis could have yielded even more impactful results. As youthful as he appeared in Lost, it’s high time Josh Holloway received a project that acknowledges his considerable talent, and Duster delivers on that front. This brisk eight-episode adventure is filled with thrilling escapades, epitomizing fun—perfectly illustrated in its lively opening credits reminiscent of childhood toy car tracks. Audiences will undoubtedly be captivated by the electric dynamic between Ellis and Hayes, allowing them to overlook any minor narrative flaws overshadowed by the exhilarating action and Holloway’s irresistible charm.
Duster premieres on May 15th on Max.
Source: Nova Play.com
