Duster Review: Josh Holloway
Duster Review: Josh Holloway – In a television landscape crowded with reboots and sequels, HBO’s new neo-Western crime drama ‘Duster’ emerges as a breath of fresh, dust-filled air. Set in the unforgiving Southwest of the 1970s, the series stars Josh Holloway (best known for his role as Sawyer in ‘Lost’) as a getaway driver who navigates the criminal underworld with the same precision he handles his vintage Plymouth. Created by J.J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan, ‘Duster’ combines the high-octane action reminiscent of the ‘Fast and Furious’ franchise with the gritty realism of prestige television drama. This comprehensive review explores how Holloway’s magnetic performance, the show’s stunning period aesthetic, and its thrilling automotive sequences make ‘Duster’ one of the most exhilarating viewing experiences of the year.
The series debuted to critical acclaim, with many praising its authentic portrayal of the 1970s Southwest and Holloway’s captivating performance as Jim, a reluctant criminal whose exceptional driving skills put him in high demand among the region’s most dangerous outlaws. As viewers, we’re immediately thrown into Jim’s world – a place where the rumble of a vintage Plymouth engine can signal either escape or impending doom.
Josh Holloway’s Triumphant Return to Leading Man Status
From ‘Lost’ Island to Desert Highways
Josh Holloway’s career has taken an interesting trajectory since his breakthrough role as the charming con man Sawyer on ABC’s ‘Lost.’ While he’s appeared in several projects since then, including ‘Colony’ and ‘Yellowstone,’ none have utilized his particular blend of rugged charisma and emotional vulnerability quite like ‘Duster.’ As Jim, Holloway delivers a performance that feels both nostalgic for fans who loved his work in ‘Lost’ and completely fresh in its approach to the outlaw archetype.
Jim is a man of few words, letting his extraordinary driving skills do most of the talking. When he does speak, it’s with purpose and often laced with the kind of sardonic humor that made Holloway a fan favorite on ‘Lost.’ But unlike Sawyer, whose charm often masked his vulnerabilities, Jim wears his world-weariness on his sleeve. There’s an authenticity to Holloway’s performance that suggests this role was tailor-made for his particular talents.
A Career-Defining Performance
What’s particularly impressive about Holloway’s work in ‘Duster’ is how physical it is. Many of the show’s most thrilling sequences involve Jim behind the wheel of his vintage Plymouth, and Holloway performs many of his own driving stunts. This dedication to authenticity elevates the already impressive action sequences to something truly special. You can feel the weight of the vehicle, hear the roar of its engine, and sense the danger in every hairpin turn.
In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Holloway revealed that he underwent extensive stunt driving training for the role: “I wanted it to feel real. When you see Jim behind the wheel, I wanted viewers to believe this guy could actually outrun anyone. That meant I had to learn how to handle that Plymouth like it was an extension of myself.”
This commitment to the role has paid dividends. Critics have been unanimous in their praise of Holloway’s performance, with many suggesting it could earn him his first Emmy nomination since ‘Lost.’
The Vintage Plymouth: A Co-Star With Horsepower
Automotive Icon Takes Center Stage
If Josh Holloway is the human heart of ‘Duster,’ then the vintage Plymouth Road Runner he drives is undoubtedly its mechanical soul. The show’s creators made a brilliant choice in selecting this particular model as Jim’s vehicle of choice. The 1970 Plymouth Road Runner, with its distinctive lines and formidable HEMI engine, was already legendary among muscle car enthusiasts before the show. Now, it’s poised to capture the imagination of a whole new generation of viewers.
The series’ automotive consultant, Craig Lieberman (who previously worked on the early ‘Fast and Furious’ films), ensured that every detail of the car was period-accurate while still allowing for the incredible stunts required by the script. The result is action sequences that feel both nostalgic and revolutionary.
More Than Just Transportation
What makes the Plymouth so compelling as an element of the show is that it’s more than just a mode of transportation for Jim – it represents freedom, control, and identity in a world where he often feels powerless. The care with which he maintains the vehicle, the intimate knowledge he has of its every nut and bolt, and the almost spiritual connection he feels when behind the wheel are all communicated brilliantly through Holloway’s performance.
In many ways, the vintage Plymouth serves as a character development tool. When Jim is forced to push the car beyond its limits, we see his own limitations tested as well. When the car takes damage, it’s often a physical manifestation of the emotional blows Jim endures throughout the season. This symbiotic relationship between man and machine gives ‘Duster’ a depth that elevates it beyond typical action fare.
‘Fast and Furious’ Meets Prestige Television
High-Octane Action With Narrative Substance
Fans of the ‘Fast and Furious’ franchise will find much to love in ‘Duster’s’ approach to automotive action. The show features some of the most thrilling chase sequences ever put on television, with Jim’s vintage Plymouth tearing through dusty back roads, narrow urban streets, and treacherous mountain passes. What separates these sequences from their big-screen counterparts, however, is their grounding in reality.
Unlike the physics-defying stunts that have become a hallmark of later ‘Fast and Furious’ entries, ‘Duster’s’ vehicular action feels dangerous and consequential. Cars don’t survive impossible jumps unscathed; drivers face real physical and emotional consequences for their daring maneuvers. This commitment to a more grounded reality helps build genuine tension during chase sequences – viewers understand that neither Jim nor his beloved Plymouth is invincible.
Cinematic Quality on the Small Screen
HBO spared no expense in bringing ‘Duster’ to life, and that investment is evident in every frame. The show was shot primarily on location in New Mexico, utilizing many of the same landscapes that have given productions like ‘Breaking Bad’ and ‘Better Call Saul’ their distinctive visual identity. Cinematographer Tobias Schliessler (who worked on ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ and ‘Beauty and the Beast’) brings a cinematic quality to the proceedings, with sweeping desert vistas contrasted against claustrophobic interior shots.
The period detail is equally impressive. From the authentic wardrobe to the meticulously recreated 1970s interiors, every aspect of ‘Duster’ feels thoroughly researched and lovingly executed. Music supervisor Randall Poster has assembled a soundtrack that perfectly captures the era without relying exclusively on obvious hits, instead mixing well-known classics with more obscure gems that help establish the show’s unique atmosphere.
The Supporting Cast: Complementing Holloway’s Star Turn
Standout Performances All Around
While Josh Holloway and his vintage Plymouth may be the main attractions, ‘Duster’ boasts an impressive ensemble cast that enriches the world of the show. Rachel Keller (‘Legion,’ ‘Fargo’) plays Nina, a local sheriff’s deputy whose investigation into a series of robberies puts her on a collision course with Jim. Keller brings depth and complexity to what could have been a stock law enforcement character, creating in Nina someone whose moral compass is just as carefully calibrated as Jim’s driving.
Don Johnson delivers a memorable performance as Earl, the aging crime boss who serves as both mentor and exploiter to Jim. Johnson’s decades of experience playing morally ambiguous characters serves him well here, as he creates in Earl a villain who’s simultaneously charming and terrifying. The scenes between Holloway and Johnson crackle with tension and unspoken history, providing some of the season’s most compelling dramatic moments.
Chemistry That Drives the Narrative
The relationship between Jim and Nina forms the emotional core of ‘Duster,’ and Holloway and Keller display remarkable chemistry that makes their complicated dynamic believable. What begins as a cat-and-mouse game evolves into something more nuanced as each character recognizes something of themselves in the other. Both are outsiders in their respective worlds, both adhere to personal codes that sometimes clash with their professional obligations, and both find themselves drawn to the other despite the obvious dangers such an attraction presents.
This complex relationship gives ‘Duster’ an emotional resonance that elevates it beyond genre entertainment. Viewers become invested not just in whether Jim will escape his latest predicament, but in whether these two damaged people can find some measure of redemption together.
The 1970s Southwest: A Character in Its Own Right
Period Setting With Contemporary Relevance
The decision to set ‘Duster’ in the 1970s Southwest proves inspired on multiple levels. Visually, it provides the show with a distinctive aesthetic that sets it apart from other crime dramas. The sun-bleached landscapes, period-appropriate vehicles (not just Jim’s vintage Plymouth, but all the background cars as well), and authentic costumes create an immersive viewing experience.
But the setting is more than just visual window dressing. The 1970s was a period of significant social upheaval in America, and ‘Duster’ doesn’t shy away from addressing issues like racial tension, the aftermath of Vietnam, and the changing role of law enforcement in society. These themes are woven naturally into the narrative, providing context for the characters’ actions without ever feeling like heavy-handed social commentary.
Beautiful Desolation
Director Frederick E.O. Toye (known for his work on ‘Westworld’ and ‘The Morning Show’) captures the Southwest with a photographer’s eye for detail. The vast, empty landscapes serve as both literal and metaphorical backgrounds for the characters’ journeys. In one particularly striking sequence, Jim sits alone on the hood of his Plymouth, staring out at an endless horizon as the sun sets. It’s a moment of quiet beauty in a show often defined by its kinetic energy.
The setting also allows for natural narrative tension. The remote locations, spotty radio communication, and relative isolation of communities create numerous opportunities for suspense. When Jim finds himself in trouble, help isn’t just a cell phone call away – he has to rely on his wits, his driving skills, and his trusty Plymouth to survive.
The Writing: Depth Beyond the Action
Character Development in the Fast Lane
Created by J.J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan, ‘Duster’ boasts scripts that give equal weight to character development and plot momentum. The show takes its time establishing Jim’s background and motivations, revealing layers of his personality gradually throughout the season rather than in expository dumps. By the season finale, viewers have a comprehensive understanding of what drives Jim (beyond his vintage Plymouth), making his ultimate choices all the more impactful.
Morgan, whose previous credits include ‘The Walking Dead’ and ‘Into the Badlands,’ brings a nuanced understanding of morally complex characters to the project. Under her guidance, even minor characters receive distinctive voices and clear motivations. The result is a fully realized world where actions have consequences and ethical choices matter.
Dialogue That Resonates
The show’s dialogue deserves special mention. In keeping with Jim’s taciturn nature, Holloway often communicates volumes with just a glance or a subtle change in posture. When he does speak, his lines are memorable without feeling overly stylized or unrealistic. In one standout scene, when asked why he continues to risk his life as a getaway driver, Jim simply responds, “In that Plymouth, for those few minutes, I’m completely free. Everything else is just waiting around to feel that way again.”
This economical approach to dialogue extends to the show as a whole. ‘Duster’ trusts its audience to follow along without excessive explanation, allowing for a more immersive viewing experience.
The Action: Setting a New Standard for Television
Practical Effects Meet Modern Filmmaking
In an era where CGI often dominates action sequences, ‘Duster’s’ commitment to practical effects and real stunt driving is refreshing. Stunt coordinator Wade Allen (whose credits include ‘Barry’ and ‘John Wick: Chapter 3’) worked closely with Holloway and the other cast members to create automotive sequences that feel dangerous and immediate.
The vintage Plymouth performs feats that seem impossible, yet are executed with such precision and filmed with such clarity that viewers can appreciate the skill involved. There’s a rawness to these sequences that calls to mind the original ‘Fast and Furious’ before the franchise evolved into its current, more fantastical form.
Consequences Matter
What truly sets ‘Duster’s’ action apart from similar fare is that the show never loses sight of the human cost of violence and danger. When characters are injured, they don’t miraculously recover by the next scene. When vehicles – including Jim’s beloved Plymouth – sustain damage, those cosmetic and mechanical issues persist. This attention to detail and commitment to consequences raises the stakes for every chase and confrontation.
Critical Reception and Future Prospects
Acclaim From Critics and Audiences Alike
Since its premiere, ‘Duster’ has enjoyed enthusiastic support from both critics and viewers. The show currently holds a 92% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with particular praise directed toward Holloway’s performance, the stunning visuals, and the thrilling driving sequences featuring the vintage Plymouth.
The New York Times called it “a neo-Western with horsepower to spare,” while Variety praised Holloway for delivering “the performance of his career, equal parts vulnerable and ferocious.” The Hollywood Reporter highlighted the show’s “impeccable period details and jaw-dropping automotive stunts” as setting a new standard for television action.
Setting the Stage for Season Two
While HBO has not yet officially announced a second season, the strong ratings and critical acclaim make renewal seem likely. The season finale cleverly resolves its main narrative while leaving several threads that could easily be picked up in future episodes. Without venturing into spoiler territory, it’s safe to say that both Jim and his vintage Plymouth have plenty of road left to travel.
Creator LaToya Morgan has hinted at plans for at least three seasons, telling Deadline, “We have a clear vision for Jim’s journey. Season one is just the beginning of his story, and we’re excited to explore new corners of this world if given the opportunity.”
How ‘Duster’ Redefines the Crime Drama Genre
Blending Influences Into Something New
What makes ‘Duster’ particularly impressive is how it synthesizes influences from various genres into something that feels fresh and distinctive. The show draws clear inspiration from classic Westerns in its themes of individualism and moral ambiguity. Its car chases and action sequences evoke comparisons to automotive classics like ‘Bullitt’ and the early ‘Fast and Furious’ films. The crime narrative and period setting recall recent hits like ‘Fargo’ and ‘True Detective.’
Yet ‘Duster’ never feels derivative. By focusing on the emotional journey of its protagonist and grounding its action in a believable reality, the show carves out its own identity. It respects genre conventions while simultaneously subverting viewer expectations at key moments.
Technical Excellence Across the Board
Beyond the performances and writing, ‘Duster’ deserves recognition for its technical achievements. The sound design is particularly noteworthy – the distinctive rumble of the vintage Plymouth’s engine becomes as recognizable as a character’s voice, while subtle audio cues help establish the period setting without drawing attention to themselves.
The editing of the action sequences deserves special praise as well. Unlike many contemporary action productions that rely on quick cuts and disorienting camera movements, ‘Duster’s’ automotive sequences are edited with clarity and purpose. Viewers always understand the geography of a chase, the relative positions of vehicles, and the stakes of each maneuver. This thoughtful approach to action editing makes the sequences more thrilling because the audience can fully appreciate the skill involved.
The Impact of ‘Duster’ on Josh Holloway’s Career
A Role Worthy of His Talents
Josh Holloway has been a fan favorite since his days on ‘Lost,’ but ‘Duster’ provides him with a role that fully utilizes his unique combination of physical presence, charisma, and emotional depth. As Jim, he creates a character who feels both specific to this narrative and archetypally American – the loner who lives by his own code, finding freedom behind the wheel of his vintage Plymouth.
Industry analysts are already suggesting that this performance could significantly elevate Holloway’s profile in Hollywood. With streaming services and cable networks continually searching for charismatic leads who can carry complex drama series, Holloway’s work in ‘Duster’ serves as a powerful calling card.
Physical Transformation for the Role
Holloway underwent a significant physical transformation to play Jim, losing weight to achieve the leaner look common among 1970s action leads and growing out his hair to match the period. In interviews, he’s spoken about the intensive driving training he underwent, noting that he wanted to perform as many of his own stunts as possible to maintain authenticity.
This dedication extends to his understanding of the vintage Plymouth at the center of the show. Holloway reportedly spent time with automotive experts learning about the specific model used in filming, gaining enough knowledge to speak convincingly about its mechanics and performance capabilities. This attention to detail enhances his portrayal of a character whose life revolves around his vehicle.
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FAQs About ‘Duster’ Starring Josh Holloway
What kind of car does Josh Holloway drive in ‘Duster’?
Josh Holloway’s character Jim drives a 1970 Plymouth Road Runner, a classic American muscle car. The vintage Plymouth serves as both a practical tool for his work as a getaway driver and a symbol of his desire for freedom and control. The show features this iconic vehicle in numerous high-intensity chase sequences that showcase its power and handling capabilities.
Is ‘Duster’ connected to the ‘Fast and Furious’ franchise?
No, ‘Duster’ is not connected to the ‘Fast and Furious’ franchise, though there are thematic similarities in their focus on skilled drivers and impressive vehicles like the vintage Plymouth featured prominently in the show. However, ‘Duster’ takes a more grounded, realistic approach to its automotive action sequences compared to the increasingly fantastic stunts of later ‘Fast and Furious’ films. The show’s automotive consultant, Craig Lieberman, did work on the early ‘Fast and Furious’ films, which helps explain some of the stylistic similarities.
How much driving does Josh Holloway actually do in the show?
According to production information, Josh Holloway performs a significant portion of his own driving stunts in the vintage Plymouth. He underwent extensive training with professional stunt drivers to prepare for the role and has spoken in interviews about wanting to do as much of his own driving as possible to maintain authenticity. For the most dangerous sequences, professional drivers were used, but Holloway is behind the wheel of the Plymouth for many of the show’s memorable driving scenes.
Will there be a second season of ‘Duster’?
HBO has not yet officially announced a second season of ‘Duster,’ but given the show’s strong ratings and positive critical reception, renewal seems likely. Creator LaToya Morgan has mentioned in interviews that she envisions at least three seasons for the series, suggesting there are plans in place should HBO greenlight additional episodes.
How historically accurate is the portrayal of the 1970s in ‘Duster’?
The production team behind ‘Duster’ went to extraordinary lengths to ensure historical accuracy in their portrayal of the 1970s Southwest. From the vintage Plymouth and other period-appropriate vehicles to costume design, set decoration, and music choices, the show creates an immersive 1970s environment. Historical consultants were employed to verify details ranging from law enforcement procedures of the era to the specific mechanics of the vehicles featured in the show.
What other projects has Josh Holloway been in since ‘Lost’?
Since his breakthrough role as Sawyer on ‘Lost,’ Josh Holloway has appeared in several notable television projects, including ‘Intelligence,’ ‘Colony,’ and ‘Yellowstone.’ However, many critics consider his role as Jim in ‘Duster’ to be his most significant and impressive performance since ‘Lost,’ giving him an opportunity to demonstrate both his action capabilities and dramatic range.
Conclusion: Why ‘Duster’ is Must-Watch Television
‘Duster’ represents a remarkable achievement in television storytelling, combining high-octane action sequences featuring a stunning vintage Plymouth with nuanced character development and thoughtful exploration of its period setting. Josh Holloway delivers a career-defining performance that reminds viewers why he became a star in the first place, while simultaneously showing new facets of his talent.
The show succeeds on multiple levels: as a thrilling action series with set pieces that rival big-budget films, as a character study of a man seeking redemption in a morally complex world, and as a period piece that captures a specific moment in American history with authenticity and insight. Its technical excellence, from the practical stunt work to the cinematography and sound design, sets a new standard for television production.
For fans of Josh Holloway, classic muscle cars like the featured vintage Plymouth, or simply well-crafted television drama, ‘Duster’ offers a viewing experience that is simultaneously entertaining and emotionally resonant. It proves that television can deliver action sequences worthy of the ‘Fast and Furious’ franchise while still maintaining the character depth and narrative complexity that have defined the current golden age of TV drama.
As we eagerly await news of a potential second season, ‘Duster’ stands as a remarkable example of what’s possible when talented creators bring passion and precision to every aspect of production. It’s a show that deserves to be celebrated not just for what it is – an exceptional crime drama – but for what it represents: the continued evolution of television as a medium capable of delivering stories that are both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Take Action: Experience ‘Duster’ For Yourself
Have you watched ‘Duster’ yet? If Josh Holloway’s compelling performance and the vintage Plymouth action sequences sound appealing, the entire first season is available now on HBO and HBO Max. Share your thoughts on the show in the comments below, and let us know if you think Jim’s vintage Plymouth deserves recognition as one of television’s most iconic vehicles!
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