

‘Alien: Earth’ Failed Itself. Plus, Ethan Hawke and Sterlin Harjo on ‘The Lowdown,’ and ‘Slow Horses’ Is Back!
Sep 25, 2025
Ethan Hawke, an acclaimed actor and filmmaker, joins forces with Sterlin Harjo, a Tulsa-based writer-director known for his work on Reservation Dogs, to dive into their gripping new series, The Lowdown. They share insights about their creative process, the unique cultural backdrop of Tulsa, and the inspiration behind their characters. The duo also discusses the kinetic filming style that brings their vibrant storytelling to life, while exploring the themes and nuanced relationships within the narrative that make it resonate.
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Show Failed Its Own Promise
- Chris Ryan argues Alien: Earth didn't fail the franchise — it failed its own internal logic and choices.
- He finds the finale punted intriguing directions and leaned on convenience over consequences.
Don't Bank On Long Gaps
- Andy Greenwald notes many finales now must justify future seasons amid long production gaps.
- He warns that ending on a thin hook risks losing audience momentum and goodwill.
Characters’ Motivations Were Undercooked
- Ryan and Greenwald highlight missed emotional payoffs, especially with characters like Dame Sylvia and Kirsch.
- They argue character motives were hinted at but not satisfactorily realized in plot outcomes.