I don't normally like to write about things as I'm watching them. Typically I like to finish the series and make sure it doesn't fizzle out on me. But Duster is not a normal show.
I started Duster because I thought it would scratch the itch I've had since I finished the show Banshee. Banshee is one of the most over the top, ridiculously absurd action packed and wildly entertaining shows I had seen in a while. It was mindless fun and I was looking for the same from Duster. That is not at all what I'm getting. Instead, I am getting a very clever and entertaining show with awesome characters and an entire vibe that seems like it was tailored to me personally... or any guy who grew up in the 1970s.
It has the look and feel of so many cool movies and shows I loved growing up. It is like you mixed Bullet, Smoking and the Bandit, a little bit of the Mod Squad, a splash of the Rockford Files and some Dazed and Confused for good measure (or at least Mathew McConaughey's character). They really nailed the 1970s details from fashion to pop culture to of course the cars. Now since I can't stand car chases, it would seem that a show named after a muscle car would not be my cup of tea. But this show is much more than a vehicle for car chases (see what I did there). Every character is awesome. There are no wasted scenes no matter who is on the screen.
Duster has a great villain played by David Keith. A perfect anti-hero played by Josh Holloway. And two perfect FBI detectives portrayed by Asivak Koostachin and Rachel Hilson. Corbin Bernsen even has a fun role. The acting is top notch and lots of fun. Even all of the temporary side characters are interesting. There are a few characters who I would love to see get some more screen time. They seem like they would have some very interesting stories.
One of the biggest surprise was that this show wasn't just vapid fun. I didn't realize it until a few episodes in but it is co-written by J.J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan. Despite some problems with the last Star Wars movie, I am still a fan of Abrams. Knowing that he is involved just makes sense. They have managed to make a show with a great story, interesting dialogue while also touching on some of the social realities of the time. Partnering a Native American and a Black Female FBI agent really adds another level to the story and I love it!
The show also has plenty of action and car chases. Although I don't think the action is the star of the show, there is enough to keep it very entertaining. There is probably one cool fight scene each show. They aren't choreographed like The Raid, but they are more like high quality fights from 1970s movies.
Probably my favorite part of the show are the little Easter Eggs that are strewn throughout the story. I won't ruin anything but they had some fun with 1970s pop culture... especially if you like Road Runner cartoons. Even the open credits are packed with Easter Eggs. It is honestly my favorite credit sequence aside from Peacemaker. Peacemaker and Duster are the only shows I don't hit "skip" when the credits start. The credits for Duster are a love letter to 1970s kids. It is Matchbox car versions of all the cars in the show on an awesome car chase that even includes some orange tracks. But don't blink during these credits. Keep your eyes peeled because during the chase you see tons of little details that will be important in future shows. I am blown away with how clever of a bit this is.
TLDR; If you like anything from the 1970s check out Duster. I just wish I could find a 4:3 screen with rabbit ears antenna I could watch it on.
Has anyone seen this? What do you think. But NO SPOILERS I'm only half way done.