A Western thriller streaming for free in the UK is hailed as a “masterpiece” with one fan saying it features the most “realistic” gunfight they’ve seen on film. Open Range (2003) is set in 1880s Montana and begins with ex Union soldier turned cattle rancher “Boss” Spearman (played by Robert Duvall) as he leads a herd cross country, assisted by cowhands Charley Waite (Kevin Costner), Mose (Abraham Benrubi), and Button (Diego Luna).
But Boss’ attempts to move on from his past of violence and conflict prove impossible when Mose fails to return from a trip to a village to get supplies. The film, which was primarily shot in Alberta, Canada, was based on the 1990 Ralph Kimball novel The Open Range Men, and directed and co-produced by Costner.
It features a star-studded cast including Annette Bening (known from films like The Grifters and American Beauty) and Harry Potter “Dumbledore” actor Michael Gambon.
One Audience Reviewer said it is the “best Western film I have ever seen”, describing it as a “true Western masterpiece”.
“Powerful, riveting, and plenty of impressive western action,” they added.
Another wrote: “This is a truly smashing film. Flawless entertainment.
“Beautifully shot, brilliantly acted and one of those few films that you can revisit time and again and still enjoy it as much as the first time.”
A third called it a “bit of an underrated gem for western fans and a small comeback for Costner”.
“This is another old fashioned look at the western frontier that is beautifully shot and well acted, with a stand out performance from Duvall. One of the best westerns made in the 00’s and deserves a re-evaluation.”
One fan on IMDb said the film contained the “most realistic film gunfight I’ve ever seen”.
They added: “Once again, Robert Duval deserves Oscar consideration for this one. The dialogue was crisp so kudos to the writing team. The attention to detail must also be applauded.”
The film has an 84% score on Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter, which reflects the percentage of users who rated it 3.5 stars or higher.
Meanwhile, on its Tomatometer, showing the percentage of Approved Tomatometer Critics who have given it a positive review, it has a 79% score.
Open Range is streaming now on Channel 4.