Yellowstone season 5 episode 13 review: grief, resilience, and a glimmer of hope

As the sun sets on the fifth season of Yellowstone, the penultimate episode, “Give the World Away,” leaves viewers on the precipice of a dramatic finale. With the weight of John Dutton’s death and the looming threat of land loss hanging heavy in the air, the Duttons grapple with their uncertain future. This episode masterfully weaves together threads of grief, resilience, and cunning strategy, setting the stage for a potentially explosive conclusion.

The episode opens with Rip (Cole Hauser) and Beth (Kelly Reilly) preparing for a ranch auction, not of the land itself, but of the equipment and livestock that make it operational. This strategic move aims to devalue the ranch in the eyes of Market Equities, potentially thwarting their plans to seize the land. However, this desperate gamble raises questions about the future viability of the Dutton Ranch. Can it survive without its essential resources?

Beth’s fiery spirit leads her to Texas to oversee the sale of Dutton horses by Travis Wheatley (Taylor Sheridan), a charismatic cowboy with a reputation for womanizing. This sets up a potential conflict, as Rip expresses concerns about Travis’s intentions towards Beth.

Meanwhile, Thomas Rainwater (Gil Birmingham) faces the grim reality of the advancing oil pipeline construction. Despite his efforts, legal avenues to stop the project seem exhausted, leaving him with a sense of powerlessness.

Jamie Dutton (Wes Bentley) finds himself entangled in a web of his own making. As news breaks about his potential involvement in the canceled land lease, he lashes out at Beth, accusing her of destroying the family legacy. Jamie’s desperation highlights the precarious position he’s in, caught between his loyalty to the Duttons and his ambition for power.

Kayce’s (Luke Grimes) return from Texas brings a sense of somber resolve. He reiterates his desire to protect his family from the ongoing conflicts, hinting at a potential departure from the ranch. This raises questions about Kayce’s role in the final showdown and the future of his family within the Dutton dynasty.

The ranch hands grapple with the loss of Colby (Denim Richards), their grief palpable. Teeter (Jennifer Landon), particularly affected by Colby’s death, finds solace in his old hat and the camaraderie of her fellow cowboys. Rip acknowledges Ryan’s (Ian Bohen) growth, hinting at a potential leadership role for him in the future.

Beth’s arrival at the Bosque Ranch, a real-life working ranch owned by Taylor Sheridan, adds a layer of authenticity to the episode. Travis, in his element, showcases his exceptional horsemanship and salesmanship, impressing Beth with his ability to command top dollar for the Dutton horses.

Despite their initial friction, Beth and Travis develop a grudging respect for each other. Travis’s willingness to help the Duttons, even after Beth’s loss in a strip poker game, reveals a surprising layer of generosity beneath his rough exterior.

Jamie, under the guidance of Christina (Katherine Cunningham), devises a plan to salvage his political career by shifting blame for John’s death onto Sarah Atwood (Dawn Olivieri). This sets up a potential clash between Jamie and the Duttons, with far-reaching consequences for the family’s future.

Rip’s conversation with Lloyd (Forrie J. Smith) underscores the loyalty and dedication that bind the ranch hands to the Yellowstone. Rip’s commitment to keeping Lloyd and Carter (Finn Little) employed, even in the face of financial hardship, speaks volumes about his character and his dedication to the ranch.

The auction itself becomes a poignant event, with a tribute to John and Colby reminding everyone of the sacrifices made to protect the ranch. The presence of Jimmy (Jefferson White) and Emily (Kathryn Kelly) from the Four Sixes reinforces the sense of community and shared purpose among the cowboys.

Beth’s conversation with Senator Lynelle Perry (Wendy Moniz) highlights the deep connections forged within the Yellowstone universe, while Kayce and Monica’s (Kelsey Asbille) dance offers a brief respite from the prevailing tension.

Beth’s heartfelt conversation with Teeter showcases the emotional toll of loss and the importance of female solidarity. The episode beautifully captures the complexities of grief, allowing characters to express their pain and find solace in shared experiences.

As the auction concludes, Kayce reveals a cryptic plan to save the ranch, involving a strategic “giving away” of the Yellowstone. This enigmatic solution sparks intrigue and leaves viewers eager to discover the final outcome.