Netflix viewers can now revisit a ‘modern day classic’ from the creator of Yellowstone, a film that was nominated for several Oscars.
Taylor Sheridan is renowned for his television work, having created some of the most popular shows in recent years.
Although he started his career as an actor, with roles in successful series like Sons of Anarchy, he later transitioned to creating his own acclaimed shows.
Sheridan is the creative genius behind Yellowstone and all its spin-off series, as well as Landman, Mayor of Kingstown and Tulsa King, among others.
He has also written a number of celebrated film scripts, including Wind River, Sicario and Those Who Wish Me Dead.
Devoted fans of Sheridan’s work can still uncover some lesser-known treasures in his filmography, including Hell or High Water, which is currently available on Netflix.
He wrote the film just a couple of years before launching Yellowstone, with it hitting screens in 2016. Chris Pine and Ben Foster star as brothers Toby and Tanner who, faced with the impending foreclosure of their family ranch following their mother’s death and unable to keep up with mortgage payments, resort to bank robbery, reports the Manchester Evening News.
As they plan their final major heist, a Texas Ranger, portrayed by Jeff Bridges and nearing retirement, is hot on their heels. The brothers must also brace themselves for a confrontation with the law if they hope to escape scot-free.
The film garnered Oscar nods for Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Editing, but ultimately was pipped to the post by Moonlight and Manchester By The Sea in the acting and writing categories respectively.
It also struck a chord with both audiences and critics, securing an impressive 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, with many hailing it as a contemporary take on the Western genre.
A critic praised: “This is one of the best crime movies in recent years, unfolding in a contemporary reality that seems disconnected from America, yet is of its essence.”
Comparisons have been drawn by fans between this film and another Oscar heavyweight, No Country For Old Men, which scooped up four Oscars.
One viewer remarked: “One of the best films in the crime thriller genre. After No Country For Old Men, this one is definitely a good watch. A simple story line, yet so impressively portrayed. The acting of the cast was top notch, which makes this a must watch.”
Another fan commented: “Gripping, intense acting, strong motivation – cult noir western. Hell or High Water is a modern day classic in which two thug brothers want to do good for their family and are mindlessly willing to go to any extremes.”
They elaborated: “The cinematography is brilliant, the adventure is realistic, the philosophy is ruthless and the acting is outstanding. Do watch it if you have a taste for bank heists/modern day cowboy westerns.”
Another individual was effusive in their praise, saying: “This film is perfect in every sense and is pleasing to eyes. This west Texas drama-thriller flick is gripping, well crafted, touching, immersive and just wonderful. Music is good and it is very well directed.”
Hell or High Water is streaming on Netflix.