"We were in the back room putting things together from the ground up... Learning from those that came before - them that had a lot of blood on their hands."

Welcome to another episode of "Something Pretty," where hosts Clay and Wes venture into the world of HBO's "Luck." This series, created and written by David Milch, the mind behind "Deadwood," and with its pilot episode directed by the acclaimed Michael Mann, offers a narrative set in the high-stakes environment of horse racing.

"Luck" delves into the intricate world of horse racing, encompassing the lives of owners, gamblers, jockeys, and trainers. Set primarily at the famed Santa Anita Park, it's celebrated for its authentic and detailed portrayal of the racing industry, as well as its complex and multifaceted characters. The show weaves together various storylines, from the gritty realities of the betting world to the personal dramas unfolding behind the scenes.

In this teaser episode (the full show is available on our Patreon), Clay and Wes dissect the pilot of "Luck," exploring its narrative structure, character development, and the thematic richness that Milch and Mann bring to the table. The series is notable for its cinematic quality, especially with Mann's directorial prowess in the pilot, and Milch's signature storytelling style, which deeply immerses viewers in the world of horse racing and its surrounding intrigue.

Our discussion of "Luck" will also focus on how it compares and contrasts with other works by Milch, including "Deadwood." This deep dive is perfect for fans of intense drama, sports enthusiasts, and those who appreciate the layered storytelling that HBO series are known for.

If you're interested in hearing the full episode, please support us via our Patreon.

Next week, we'll be back with a full episode on this feed, as we discuss "Deadwood: The Movie" and close out our podcast.

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Supplemental Reading:

The Deadwood Bible: A Lie Agreed Upon

Deadwood: Stories of the Black Hills

Deadwood: The Golden Years

Reading Deadwood: A Western to Swear By

Life's Work

Theme Song:

Western ShowDown by HoliznaCC0 is licensed under a CC0 1.0 Universal License.