Review of Hostiles (2017) by Devaughn B — 30 Jan 2018

A phenomenal Western film about the relationships between U.S. soldiers, bandits, and Native Americans during 1890. If you are a fan of modern Westerns, this one will blow you away. Seriously, the first 2 minutes alone will be enough to see your jaw dropping right to the floor. And you won't pick it up for a while! Such a powerful, dark, and real exploration of the tensions at the time. Christian Bale and Rosamund Pike give such amazing performances, I can't help but wonder why this (technically 2017) film received no awards season recognition. Not even for the fantastic costume design or sound editing. Everything just feels so real here: the costumes and hair, the makeup, creating the dirty faces, the sounds of gunshots.

But what truly stands out here over all else, the incredible story and out of this world performances by the Native American actors. Wes Studi, who is criminally overlooked for supporting actor recognition this season, Adam Beach, Q'orianka Kilcher, and many many others. Being able to see the story unfold from the perspectives of indigenous peoples who just want peace, away from the turmoil, as well as the tribes who engage in the most violent battles to defend their lands. Thanks to a few recommendations I decided to look more into this film, and I was sold. I am so glad I was able to catch it, because the advertising is almost nonexistent. This film will not disappoint, so please try to check it out while you can!