Sheridan's Early Gem: Hell or High Water

A decade before the sprawling Yellowstone universe captivated audiences, Taylor Sheridan's writing talent shone in the 2016 film Hell or High Water. Now recognized as a top Western on Prime Video, the movie is celebrated for its nuanced storytelling. It was written by Sheridan and directed by David Mackenzie, establishing many of the hallmarks of his later work.

The narrative centers on brothers Toby and Tanner Howard, portrayed by Chris Pine and Ben Foster, who engage in a series of bank robberies. Their objective is to protect their family's West Texas ranch from foreclosure. Jeff Bridges co-stars as Marcus Hamilton, a seasoned Texas Ranger determined to apprehend them.

While technically a crime thriller, the film's setting in Texas, themes of land and family, and its focus on struggling ranchers firmly place it within the modern Western genre. Critics lauded its confident pacing and well-developed characters over gratuitous action, contributing to its high critical acclaim.

Hell or High Water earned Sheridan an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay. Rotten Tomatoes ranks it as his number one project, making it a must-watch for fans of his television empire. Sheridan's unique writing approach, characterized by an aversion to heavy exposition, allows the plot's simplicity to highlight character motivations and the evolving landscape of West Texas.