Review of Bone Tomahawk (2015) by Kevin D — 01 Nov 2017

Stunning Performances in This Western/Horror Blend.

Author Craig Zahler's directorial debut is a beautiful period piece set in the old west. I haven't enjoyed a western in quite a while... and this was an absolutely fantastic film!

The story takes place in the town of Bright Hope, which for the most part is a small settlement not far from the Mexican border. Kurt Russell kicks the dust off his boots and returns as yet another western sheriff (not since he played Wyatt Earp in 'Tombstone'). Patrick Wilson, Richard Jenkins, and Mathew Fox come together to form a posse of lawmen looking to rescue Wilson's wife, the local town doctor, after being kidnapped by a native tribes-people of mythical nature.

What really drew me in were the performances from each of the actors. Everybody brought something fantastic to the screen, and I was always surprised when I realized I forgot the name of a certain actor, and when I completely believed that they were someone else entirely. Kurt Russell does a fine job of portraying the duty bound Sheriff, but the real surprise for me was Richard Jenkins as the elderly Deputy. The way he changed so much of himself to really represent the age of the character, and the somewhat simple nature of the aged, just completely blew me away. I was captivated by his performance alongside so many other great actors.

There are some very shocking scenes in this film, and a grit that seems all too real at times. A few of the gorier scenes seemed a little over the top with violence, but that seems to be the trend these days with other modern western titles focusing on violence rather than story. However there weren't too many of them, and they balanced the story line well. A few of the more disgusting moments are saved till the end, and it begins to touch briefly on the horror genre, as you learn more about the kind of evil these men are up against. But overall there were some pretty fantastic moments of shock, blended in well in order to make a deeply moving piece of cinema.

A great story, even better acting, and just a touch of madness, 'Bone Tomahawk' is not a film you want to miss.

4/5.