OLD HENRY is a different breed. I am normally not a fan of the “western” genre. Lots of dirt, horses, and lawlessness. Though I admire the grit and determination of those who had to survive in early 1900’s America, I usually walk away feeling disillusioned. This film was an exception as I actually enjoyed it for a few reasons.
OPENS IN U.S. CINEMAS ON OCTOBER 1, 2021
Synopsis: Old Henry is an elevated action-Western about a widowed farmer and his son who warily take in a mysterious, injured man with a satchel of cash. When a posse of men claiming to be the law come for the money, the farmer must decide whom to trust. Defending against a siege of his homestead, he reveals a talent for gunslinging that surprises everyone, calling his true identity into question.
What initially drew me to the film was seeing actor Tim Blake Nelson in the lead role. I have been a fan of his since day one, and knew that he would bring something special to the character and the genre as a whole. His quirky demeanor and the way he delivers dialogue is unique. He is immediately recognizable without ever being cookie cutter.
In this one he is Henry, a world weary farmer in 1906 Oklahoma. Having lost his wife years back he struggles daily at farming and raising his teenaged son. This character – or more the script writing – reminds me a bit of O Brother Where Art Thou? Henry talks a lot in clipped proverbs and words of wisdom. You like him and his son immediately. I shared the burden as Henry struggled with the decisions before him.
It is a simple script really. One man defending his home against uninvited forces while trying to keep his past at bay. As I mentioned Westerns are lawless and if you are going to survive you have to be willing. Henry has little help against his enemy other than tenacity and determination.
I was reminded how our past always seems to catch up to us no matter how hard we try and escape it. Granted it doesn’t always come in the form of ruthless vigilantes, but at some point and time we have to come to terms with things. That is Henry’s journey and for the viewer it is a neat surprise.
OLD HENRY is not rated but intended for mature audiences due to action violence and imagery. I recommend it for sure. Even if you don’t normally gravitate to this genre you will appreciated the story and performances.
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