The Ranch (2016)

The Ranch, a Netflix original television show, is a contemporary, western-style sitcom that debuted in 2016 and concluded in 2020. With a star-studded cast that includes Ashton Kutcher, Elisha Cuthbert, Debra Winger, Sam Elliott, and Danny Masterson; this series dives into a flawed, yet lovable, Colorado family's life, combining heartfelt storytelling with an ample supply of humor.

Located in the fictional town of Garrison in Colorado, the series paints a picture of rugged heartland America. The focus of the narrative is on the Bennett family, particularly Colt Bennett, played by Kutcher. Colt is a semi-professional football player who, following numerous failed attempts at professional football, returns to his hometown. The opportunity presents a chance to put his sporting career on hold and assist in the family's struggling ranching business.

Colt's father, Beau Bennett, played by the distinctively-voiced Sam Elliott, is a Vietnam War veteran and third-generation cattle rancher. His tough, hard-nosed, alpha-male persona is offset brilliantly by his soft-hearted wife, Maggie, suitably played by Debra Winger. Despite their separation, the love they share for each other is felt by viewers, becoming a vital aspect of the show’s charm.

Then there's Rooster Bennett, Colt's older brother. Played by Danny Masterson, Rooster is laid back, always cracking jokes, and is considerably contented with his life in Garrison, contrasting starkly to his younger brother’s aspirations. Rounding off the main cast is Elisha Cuthbert as Abby Phillips, Colt’s high school girlfriend, and subsequently, his wife. Abby is a Garrison local and high school teacher who perfectly counter-balances Colt's often misguided enthusiasm with reasoned decision-making and wisdom.

With its comedic backdrop, The Ranch touches upon several relevant socioeconomic themes that resonate within rural communities, such as job loss, financial struggles, family disputes, love affairs, and societal divides. Indeed, the series' strength lies in its ability to combine hilarious punchlines with an exploration of serious, real-world challenges faced by American farming families. This mixture, combined with the country music intermission – often utilized during particularly poignant scenes – adds a unique western flavor to the series.

The format of The Ranch offers an enjoyable blend of episodic comedy merged with extended narrative arcs that span across multiple episodes, even entire seasons. This gives the writing an opportunity to build complex, layered characters who grow and evolve over time, providing viewers an opportunity to form a stronger connection with the Bennett family and other residents of Garrison.

The visual identity of the series captures the rustic charm of the ranching lifestyle, with the picturesque backdrop of Colorado’s sprawling landscapes creating a stunning canvas for the show’s proceedings. The setting gives The Ranch an authentic western look, with the Bennett's rustic yet homely ranch providing the comforting novelty of a loving, if wildly dysfunctional, home.

What makes The Ranch truly stand out is its outstanding ensemble cast, each bringing nuances to their characters. Kutcher and Masterson’s playful on-screen camaraderie is a highlight. Elliot’s performance resonates with gruff charm, while Winger navigates the complexities of her multifaceted character with absolute elegance. Cuthbert never misses a beat in delivering her dialogues with the right blend of humor and sincerity, thereby bringing a warm, relatable presence to the series.

The Ranch provides audiences with a classic comedy-drama experience, which is easy-going and laced with a variety of engaging plot twists. Its traditional sitcom setting is well-sequenced with the American mid-west life, making the series relatable to many viewers. The storytelling encapsulates the struggle between holding onto tradition and accepting change, a narrative that the series conveys with both wit and genuineness.

In a nutshell, The Ranch serves as a hearty homage to the American West, focusing on individuals trying to maintain their way of life amidst the trials of a rapidly modernizing world. With its compelling storytelling, wonderfully etched characters, and a flavor of authentic Americana, the show beautifully blends comedy with drama in a contemporary western setting. No matter whether you are a fan of sitcoms or westerns, or just enjoy warming family dramas, The Ranch guarantees something for everyone.