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Taylor Sheridan’s Underrated Masterpiece: Hell or High Water
Taylor Sheridan is a name that many associate with television, thanks to his work on shows like Yellowstone and Wind River. However, he has also made a significant impact in the film industry. Despite this, many of his movies remain underappreciated. Titles such as Finestkind and Those Who Wish Me Dead often go unnoticed, even though they are solid works. Yet, one of his most celebrated films, Hell or High Water, released in 2016, still doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.
A Film That Deserves More Attention
Hell or High Water is a neo-Western that stars Chris Pine and Ben Foster as two brothers, Toby and Tanner, who turn to bank robbery to save their family land from foreclosure. Their actions catch the attention of a Texas Ranger, played by Jeff Bridges, who begins a relentless pursuit. The film received critical acclaim, earning four Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, Best Supporting Actor (Jeff Bridges), and Best Editing.
Despite its high Rotten Tomatoes score of 97%, the film only grossed $36 million at the box office. This was partly due to its low budget of just $12 million, which limited marketing efforts. Additionally, OddLot Entertainment, the production company behind the film, was already struggling financially and had shut down by the time the movie was released.
A Challenging Release Year
2016 was a tough year for indie films, as it was packed with big-budget releases such as Captain America: Civil War, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Deadpool, War Dogs, and Fantastic Beasts. These films dominated the box office, making it difficult for smaller projects to gain traction. At the time, Taylor Sheridan was not yet a household name. His TV shows had not yet taken off, and people primarily remembered him for his role in Sons of Anarchy.
As a result, Hell or High Water was overshadowed by other films and TV series. However, with the passage of time, it’s clear that this movie deserves more attention.
A Unique Take on the Western Genre
What sets Hell or High Water apart from traditional Westerns is its approach to character dynamics. The criminals in the film are not portrayed as villains but rather as individuals driven by necessity. The brothers, Toby and Tanner, are not motivated by greed but by the need to protect their family’s land. Their mother’s recent death adds emotional depth to their actions, making them more relatable to the audience.
Sheridan explores the theme of "crime from necessity" rather than "crime from greed." The discovery of oil on their land makes the stakes higher, leading to a series of events that escalate into violence. While there are some nods to Paul Thomas Anderson’s There Will Be Blood, the film maintains its own unique identity through the direction of David Mackenzie.
Stellar Performances
The performances in Hell or High Water are exceptional. Chris Pine delivers one of his best roles, showcasing a range that goes beyond his usual action-hero persona. Jeff Bridges, in particular, shines as the Texas Ranger, embodying a character that feels authentic and grounded. His portrayal is reminiscent of Llewelyn Moss from No Country for Old Men, but with a more cautious and strategic approach.
Why It Still Matters Today
Ten years after its release, Hell or High Water remains a powerful and thought-provoking film. Its themes of economic struggle, family loyalty, and moral ambiguity continue to resonate with audiences. It’s a film that rewards repeat viewings and offers something new with each watch.
For fans of genre cinema, Hell or High Water is a must-watch. It can be rented on platforms like Amazon or Apple TV+ and is well worth the time investment. With its compelling story, strong performances, and unique take on the Western genre, it’s a film that should not be overlooked.