By Chris Snellgrove
| Published 20 seconds ago

Every now and then, I see the mainstream reaction to a successful movie and it makes me feel like I’m taking crazy pills. Perhaps the greatest example of this is the reaction to The Wolf of Wall Street, Martin Scorsese’s film about the infamous stockbroker named Jordan Belfort. The film is amazing, and it became both a critical and commercial smash hit. Nonetheless, every time I turned around, I saw more people condemning the film. To some degree or another, all of the haters share the same sentiment: that The Wolf of Wall Street effectively glorifies its main character’s illegal, immoral, and downright depraved activities.

Now, that’s an understandable surface-level reading of a movie where a guy parlays manic narcissism into a life of wealth and fame, complete with Margot Robbie in his bed every night. However, what such critics are really complaining about is that Scorsese didn’t give us something with the binary morality and instant consequences of an afterschool special, complete with messages like “drugs are bad, kids!” Instead, the director did something better than pretty much any film since Trainspotting: he revealed the downright intoxicating allure of this hedonistic lifestyle before revealing exactly how much damage it can cause to a man and his family.

Greed Has Never Looked So Good

The Wolf of Wall Street focuses on Jordan Belfort, someone who discovers early on that he is very successful at selling stocks. He opens his own brokerage firm, recruiting his buddies and training them in the art of pumping and dumping. Along the way, he gains fame, acclaim, and more money than God. Unfortunately, this causes him to sink into a life of drug abuse that only gets worse as his criminal activities catch the attention of the FBI. Ultimately, he must decide what to save: the scummy business he built from the ground up, or the brilliant young man who has effectively buried himself in a life of delinquency and decadence.

From the very beginning, The Wolf of Wall Street has been plagued by criticisms that it glorifies all of the excessive and downright dangerous behavior of Leonardo DiCaprio’s Jordan Belfort. These critiques typically focus on the ratio of content we are shown. That is, in its oversized three-hour runtime, we see far more of Belfort and other characters living lavish, impossibly expensive lifestyles than we see them paying for their transgressions. Belfort may get arrested at the end, but the film’s haters don’t believe that is enough to offset the rest of the film emphasizing just how well crime can pay.

Why The Haters Are Wrong

It doesn’t help that Belfort, thanks to DiCaprio, is very handsome and charming. Critics of The Wolf of Wall Street believe this helps the film portray this shady stockbroker as someone to look up to. Throw in the fact that the victims are mostly invisible and Belfort’s life is so luxurious, and you are left with a seeming message that crime really does pay. The whole movie feels like an exciting rollercoaster, one that ends with the charismatic criminal serving less than two years in prison. Because of these things, haters consider The Wolf of Wall Street an unabashed and downright dangerous bit of blatant hero worship.

Of course, the harshest critics of The Wolf of Wall Street are wrong about the movie glorifying Jordan Belfort. From the very beginning, Martin Scorsese’s film reminded me of what producer Andrew Macdonald once said about Trainspotting. That film generated a similar moral panic from haters who thought that it was glorifying drugs. Regarding that panic, the producer once told the BBC that, “we were determined to show why people took drugs … you had to show that it was fun and that it was awful.” This caused director Danny Boyle to chime in: “It’s the music and humor that makes people feel it’s glamorising drugs.”

The Modern Anti-Drug PSA

The similar response to The Wolf of Wall Street proves the aphorism from True Detective is, well, true: time really is a flat circle. Obviously, Boyle’s comments explain why so many think Scorsese’s film is glorifying bad behavior: because Belfort, his friends, and their insane actions are often downright hilarious. Many people have trouble separating fiction from reality in their heads, and their own laughter at these onscreen antics makes them feel guilty. They wouldn’t cheer for actual criminals doing terrible things, so they feel weird cheering a fictional sleazebag. Instead of processing how and why they feel this way, these haters simply conclude that the film must be endorsing bad behavior.

The irony here is that The Wolf of Wall Street does condemn that bad behavior, but it does so in a realistic way. We see Jordan Belfort destroy multiple marriages, lose his reputation, and ultimately get tossed in jail; as both a stockbroker and a human being, he fails on almost every level. Why would he go down such a self-destructive path, knowing how risky it could be? Simple: money and power. Belfort is hypnotized by the obscene amounts of money he is making, and his growing love of wealth steadily erodes his judgment. Nothing is more powerful than money, and Scorsese has crafted a tale of power completely and utterly corrupting someone.

You’re Never Higher Than Before The Fall

As with Trainspotting, The Wolf of Wall Street channels the hilarious highs and sobering lows of drug abuse. One of the reasons that anti-drug commercials were always a joke is that they focused entirely on the consequences of abuse, but never on why someone would be tempted in the first place. Scorsese’s film chronicles how Jordan Belfort’s road to hell was paved with every temptation known to man; by the time we see his epic fall from grace, it’s clear that none of this was worth it, despite the drug-fueled ride. That’s ultimately far more effective than a movie that channels its inner South Park to simply say, “Drugs are bad, mm’kay!”

All of this is, of course, part of the magic. The Wolf of Wall Street can be seen as a cautionary tale, one that goes to great lengths to show the dangers of drug abuse and criminal activity. But it can also be seen as a breezy comedy powered by sex, drugs, and stock’n’roll. In reality, the movie is both things: it entertains us with the exploits of very fallible characters while also exploring the permanent consequences of their drunken follies. Ultimately, The Wolf of Wall Street’s concern trolls need to take their own advice and worry about their own addiction: namely, the high they get from preaching to people on the internet!

The Wolf of Wall Street is currently streaming on Hulu.

A major Marvel rumor is making waves online, with reports claiming that Adam Driver is being lined up to play Magneto in Marvel Studios’ highly anticipated X-Men reboot.

The casting rumor quickly gained traction after surfacing through industry scoopers before spreading across social media, Reddit, and several entertainment news outlets. While Marvel Studios has yet to confirm the report, Driver’s name has rapidly become one of the most talked about possibilities for the iconic mutant leader.

If the rumor proves true, Driver would become the third major actor to portray Erik Lehnsherr on the big screen, following legendary performances by Sir Ian McKellen and Michael Fassbender. The role is widely considered one of Marvel’s most complex characters, requiring an actor capable of balancing both villainy and sympathy, something many fans believe Driver has consistently demonstrated throughout his career.

Adding even more excitement to the speculation is the timing. Marvel Studios is expected to return to Hall H at San Diego Comic-Con later this month, and many insiders believe the presentation could serve as the stage for the studio’s first official X-Men casting announcements. While rumors continue to point toward Hall H as the place where Marvel could unveil its new mutant lineup, the studio has not confirmed that any X-Men casting announcements are planned, making the speculation just that for now.

Recent reports have suggested Marvel is assembling a fresh roster of mutants following the events of Avengers: Secret Wars, with younger actors reportedly being sought for characters like Cyclops, Jean Grey, Storm, and Nightcrawler. Veteran actors are still believed to be in the mix for legacy characters such as Magneto and Professor X, making Driver’s rumored involvement a believable fit if Marvel chooses to go that route.

Magneto, Marvel

Driver is no stranger to blockbuster franchises, having portrayed Kylo Ren throughout Disney’s Star Wars sequel trilogy while also earning Academy Award nominations for Marriage Story and BlacKkKlansman. His ability to portray emotionally layered characters has made him a longtime fan favorite for several Marvel roles.

For now, however, fans should approach the rumor with caution. Marvel Studios has remained silent regarding its X-Mencast, and numerous names have been linked to the reboot over the past year without becoming official.

With San Diego Comic-Con just around the corner, fans may not have to wait much longer to learn who will lead the next generation of Marvel’s mutants. Whether Adam Driver ultimately dons Magneto’s iconic helmet remains to be seen, but if the Hall H rumors prove accurate, the official reveal could be just days away.

Actor Sam Neill passed away on July 13, 2026, at age 78. Although he had been open about his cancer struggles, his family released a short statement saying that his death was “sudden” and “unexpected.” Less than a week after his tragic passing, his cause of death was made public by a representative for the “Jurassic Park” actor.

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On July 15, a representative for the actor revealed that the “Jurassic Park” star had passed away due to pneumonia at age 78.

“Prior to becoming sick, Sam had valiantly fought and beaten lymphoma through a new treatment called CAR-T therapy,” the actor’s representative told PEOPLE magazine in a brief statement.

The representative noted that the actor had been busy in the past twelve months. In addition to filming four projects back-to-back, he was also running his winery, Two Paddocks.

Neill’s Rep Requests Donations In Lieu Of Flowers

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A private family memorial will be held at his New Zealand farm. The date of the memorial has yet to be announced.

“I’d like to thank those who were truly close to Sam for considering his privacy with the respect he earned and his loved ones need and deserve during this immeasurably difficult time,” his rep added.

In lieu of flowers, Neill’s rep said that fans could donate to some of the actor’s favorite causes, which include The Dunstan Hospital Foundation, The Snowdome Foundation, the NZ Nature Fund and Sustainable Tarras.

Sam Neill Was Diagnosed With A Rare Type Of Blood Cancer In 2022

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In 2022, “The Hunt for Red October” actor was diagnosed with angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, a rare kind of blood cancer. He later revealed that he was in remission, but admitted that he would have to receive chemotherapy for the rest of his life.

Despite his cancer struggles, his family said that his death was “sudden and unexpected” in a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram following his passing.

“It is with immense sadness that the whānau [extended family] of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday 13th July, in Sydney, Australia,” the statement began.

“Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterized his whole life,” they continued. “The loss was sudden and unexpected but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer-free. They would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital for their incredible care.”

The statement went on to say, “More details will be shared later, but for now, on behalf of the family, we ask that you respect their privacy as they navigate this immeasurable loss.”

Sam Neill Left Behind Four Children

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The actor is survived by four children. He fathered a son named Andrew in his 20s, but he did not have a relationship with him until the pair reunited in 2014. He shared another son, Tim, with his “Omen III” costar, actress Lisa Harrow.

He adopted another daughter, Maiko, with his ex-wife, Noriko Watanabe, whom he was married to from 1989 to 2017. They also shared a daughter named Elena.

Many Hollywood Stars Paid Tribute To The Late Actor

Many of the late actor’s costars took to social media to pay tribute to the actor following his death. His “Peaky Blinders” costar Cillian Murphy called him “one of the kindest, funniest and gentlest people, and one of the finest actors,” adding, “Like everyone who knew and worked with Sam, I admired him and adored him in equal measure…RIP.”

His “The Hunt for Red October” costar Alec Baldwin shared a tribute on Instagram, saying, “Sam Neill was not only one of the most talented people I have ever worked with, but one of the kindest and warmest as well. After The Hunt for Red October, I had always hoped to work with him again.”

“Jurassic World” director Colin Trevorrow called the actor “a deeply soulful and beautiful man” in his Instagram tribute, adding, “He was a friend and collaborator at a challenging time, and his strength gave us all strength.”

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“I’ll remember him for his tranquility, his love of wine, and for the calm assuredness he brought to his characters,” he continued. “It’s not every lifetime you get to befriend a legend. Forever grateful.”

By Chris Snellgrove
| Published 3 seconds ago

While the ‘80s were full of iconic children’s franchises, only a handful have successfully reinvented themselves for modern audiences. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Transformers, and even Ghostbusters have received multiple successful revivals, but several other franchises (like He-Man, judging by the poor box office for Masters of the Universe) still primarily appeal to middle-aged men. This includes G.I. Joe, a ‘60s IP that was transformed into the ultimate toyline for ‘80s kids. With comics, cartoons, video games, and more, G.I. Joe was everywhere. But after three different middling live-action movies failed to impress audiences, it seemed like the brand was effectively dead.

In recent years, however, G.I. Joe has gotten a real shot in the arm. Skybound has released awesome comics set in a brand-new Energon Universe, all while allowing original Marvel scribe Larry Hama to continue his own long-running story in its own timeline. After Transformers: Rise of the Beasts teased the return of the Joes, it was just a matter of time before they hit the big screen again. Now, it’s official. Paramount is working on a new film featuring America’s favorite fighting force, and they finally decided who they want to revive the franchise: Danny McBride will write and direct the G.I. Joe movie. 

Fourth Time’s The Charm

Danny McBride’s involvement in this project isn’t all that surprising to those who have been keeping track of it. Paramount has been working on their untitled G.I. Joe film for a while now, and McBride was one of the creators working on the script. The studio also hired controversial writer Max Landis to write a draft, essentially forcing him and McBride to compete with one another. Now, it’s fair to say that McBride won that competition: not only will he be writing the G.I. Joe film, but this movie will also be his directorial debut.

Beyond the fact that McBride will write and direct the movie, very little is known about the upcoming G.I. Joe movie. Ahead of their merger with Warner Bros., Paramount has been focusing on important legacy IPs, including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Star Trek, and even Top Gun. Done well, a G.I. Joe movie has the potential to appeal to old-school fans and younger audiences looking to discover a new favorite. However, it’s a fairly big gamble: the last G.I. Joe film was 2021’s Snake Eyes, which angered hardcore fans while barely drawing any attention from mainstream audiences. 

And Knowing Is Half The Battle

Given that McBride is best known as a comedic actor and writer, it sounds like Paramount wants to create a tongue-in-cheek homage to G.I. Joe that still respects these characters and their universe (like Travis Knight did with Masters of the Universe). The studio obviously wants to drive more subscribers to Paramount+, and if the Joe movie is successful, it could lead to spinoff films and even TV series. At the very least, the movie should have some momentum behind it, as it will likely hit theaters after the premiere of the upcoming Transformers/G.I. Joe crossover cartoon.

Danny McBride may seem like an odd choice to direct G.I. Joe, but he certainly has a passion for the brand. After all, who can forget when he played himself in This Is The End and took demented glee in making Channing Tatum (star of the original G.I. Joe film) into his love slave? In all seriousness, McBride is a very gifted writer, one whose quirky sense of humor will hopefully help him craft a great story. Only time will tell if that translates to box office success, though. After all, when it comes to Hollywood, great writing is only half the battle!

Zendaya is to thank for Tom Holland taking up the offer to appear in Christopher Nolan’s big-hit movie, “The Odyssey.” However, the decision didn’t come so easily.

The friends-turned-lovers formed a bond that turned into a lifetime partnership on the set of “Spider-Man: Homecoming” back in 2021.

Holland recently looked to that foundation when he was presented with the difficult choice of having to choose between “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” and “The Odyssey.”

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During a recent round table with director Nolan and his co-stars Anne Hathaway and Matt Damon, the British actor revealed how Zendaya convinced him about the role.

In the ancient Greek-inspired fantasy film, Holland plays the role of Telemachus, the son of Odysseus, played by Damon, and Penelope, played by Hathaway.

“To be honest, when I got home after our meeting, I sat down with Z and was like, ‘I’ve been offered this movie.’ And she was like, ‘By who?’ And I was like, ‘It’s the big one,’” he recalled.

When it was confirmed the script came from Nolan, Holland expressed concern about clashing schedules as he was due to begin filming the fourth sequel of the Marvel movie. However, Zendaya encouraged him to go for it, putting her foot down.

“Z said, ‘I’ll leave you if you don’t do The Odyssey,’” he said, according to People Magazine.

Jon Bernthal Praises Zendaya And Tom Holland’s Relationship

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Luckily, Holland listened to his woman and the pair ended up as co-stars in the Nolan adaptation and also in “Spider-Man: Brand New Day.”

Schedules for both powerhouse movies didn’t end up clashing, as Sony Pictures was able to push back filming dates to make room for the duo.

While on the set of both summer blockbusters, due for release this July, Holland and Zendaya caught the attention of their co-star Jon Bernthal, who couldn’t help but gush about their chemistry.

“Beyond all the movie star stuff and success that guy has, the fact that he has that kind of relationship — and that he loves as hard as he does — makes me so happy. I’m so proud,” he revealed in an interview with Variety.

“The Bear” actor revealed he got to know Zendaya and was in awe of their bond.

Bernthal, who starred alongside Holland in the 2017 movie, “Pilgrimage,” also felt proud to reunite with his former co-star, whom he has known since he was 17.

When Did Zendaya Fall In Love With Tom Holland?

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Although Holland and Zendaya started as friends who were cast as on-screen lovers in the superhero franchise, insiders say a particular moment changed the dynamic.

As reported by The Blast, the London native’s performance of “Umbrella” on “Lip Sync Battle” reportedly swept the Disney alum off her feet as she was amazed by his talent.

“It’s not just sexy, but it shows how amazingly talented he is. It takes a lot of confidence for a straight guy to pull off drag,” a source explained.

Zendaya, who performed “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars, was left in total admiration, changing the way she saw Holland.

Inside Tom Holland And Zendaya’s Secret Wedding

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Despite being global movie stars who met on set, Zendaya and Holland have managed to keep details of their romance super secret, including their wedding.

After confirming engagement rumors in late December 2025, the lovebirds remained quiet on wedding plans until the “Uncharted” actor broke his silence last month.

Following speculations that the pair had secretly gotten married, Holland was asked during an interview how his family members reacted to AI-generated images of their nuptials circulating online.

As The Blast reported, the 30-year-old replied that they weren’t fooled ” because they were all there… That’s all you’ll get on that.”

Tom Holland Entering A New Chapter After ‘The Odyssey’

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Amid the blockbuster-packed summer for Holland, the actor has had time to reflect on what starring in Nolan’s project means for his career.

Describing the opportunity as “a real pinch-me moment,” Holland noted that his role as Telemachus, a young man in search of his father, highlighted how it might be his last chance to play a younger character.

It also helps that his personal life has evolved into a phase, thanks to his marriage to Zendaya. The combination confirms to Holland that he is in a “new chapter” of life, per The Blast.

When Rory McIlroy is gone, he’s not particularly concerned about the impact he’s left on the game of golf. 

McIlroy, 37, was asked about his “legacy past when you’ll be on this Earth” during a press conference on Tuesday, July 14, ahead of the 2026 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale.

“I don’t really care,” McIlroy said. “I would like to think that the people that love and care about me think a certain way of me. But I’ll be long gone. I’ll be dead.”

He added, “I don’t think I’ll be seeing what people say about me. I’ll be six feet under. I don’t think I’ll be a ghost.”

Related: Golfer Rory McIlroy and Wife Erica Stoll Make Rare Appearance at Wimbledon

Golfer Rory McIlroy and his wife, Erica Stoll, were all smiles at Wimbledon. While enjoying their outing in London, the couple was spotted inside the Royal Box on Tuesday, June 30. In one image, McIlroy, 37, and Stoll, 38, shared a sweet smooch while they watched the match. McIlroy sported his Masters green jacket, which […]

Scottie Scheffler got similarly existential when he asked if he cares about his “legacy” on Tuesday. 

“I mean to be completely honest, not really,” Scheffler, 30, told reporters at Royal Birkdale. “I don’t really play for a place in history. I’m not playing for anything like that. Because, this is going to sound a little morbid, but at the end of the day I’m going to live my life and then it’s going to end. And when it ends, I’m going somewhere else and I’m not going to be here anymore.”

Scheffler continued, “Legacy and all that stuff was never really something that motivated me. For me, it was always competition. I loved playing golf. I loved waking up with butterflies because I’m going out to play a tournament and I get a chance to compete today. I love those feelings, and when I retire, I’m going to miss them.”

Ultimately, Scheffler confessed that he has “never once thought about how I’m going to be remembered.”

Scheffler’s comments came one year after he ruminated on his purpose ahead of the 2025 Open Championship at Royal Portrush. 

Related: Bombshell Allegations Revealed About Sherrone Moore, Staffer in New Report

A new investigation revealed that the University of Michigan allegedly knew about former head coach Sherrone Moore’s relationship with staff member Paige Shiver for more than a year before Moore was terminated.  Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel wrote a handwritten note about Moore, 40, and Shiver, 32, in August 2024, two days before Moore’s first […]

“Life goes on,” he said of success. “Is it great to be able to win tournaments and to accomplish the things I have in the game of golf? Yeah, I mean it brings tears to my eyes just to think about because I’ve literally worked my entire life to become good at the sport and to have that sense of accomplishment, I think is a pretty cool feeling. To get to live out your dreams is very special.”

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Still, Scheffler admitted that he isn’t motivated to “inspire somebody else to be the best player in the world.”

“Because what’s the point?” Scheffler questioned. “This is not a fulfilling life. It’s fulfilling from the sense of accomplishment, but it’s not fulfilling from the deepest places of your heart. There’s a lot of people who make it to what they thought was going to fulfill them in life. Then you get there and all of a sudden you get to number one in the world and they’re like, ‘What’s the point?’” 

The 2026 Open Championship begins Thursday, July 16, from Royal Birkdale Golf Club in North West England. 

Roommates, a heartbreaking update has surfaced as Nolan Xavier Wells’ loved ones continue to navigate the loss of the 18-year-old. As his family prepares to honor his life, his mother, Christine Wonsley, is sharing a glimpse into the emotions surrounding the upcoming farewell.

RELATED: Family Friend Who Retrieved Nolan Xavier Wells’ Cell Phone For His Parents Says “It Took About 15 Minutes” (WATCH)

Family Announces Details For Nolan Xavier Wells’ Funeral Service

This week, Christine Wonsley shared a funeral update on her Facebook story, writing, “Planning the funeral of our 18 year old does not feel real. All the emotions are running together. I thank God for the moments of being able to watch videos and hear his laugh again. We miss you so much Nolan. #JusticeForNolanWells #Forever18.” She also shared that all official information regarding Nolan’s funeral and repass will come through her social media accounts and a press release from her legal team, while thanking everyone for the outpouring of love and support.

In another post, Christine shared the official funeral announcement featuring Nolan’s photo and details for his upcoming service on July 20. She noted that the repass will remain private, with passes provided to attendees, and added that security will be present for both the funeral and repass. Christine asked everyone attending to remain peaceful as her family continues to honor Nolan’s memory.

Nolan’s Mother Shares Emotional Memories & Calls For Answers

Christine Wonsley also took to TikTok, where she shared an emotional collage featuring photos and videos of Nolan enjoying life before it was tragically cut short. Alongside the memories, she expressed her heartbreak and frustration over the unanswered questions surrounding his death, writing, “My sonshine why did you have to leave us so soon 😔. This loss feels so unbearable. My heart is completely shattered and still no answers, no communication. All we want is a thorough, honest, transparent investigation.” She ended the post by sharing her love for Nolan while continuing to call for answers with the hashtags #WhatHappenedToNolanWells, #JusticeForNolanWells, and #Forever18.

@christinefnp

My sonshine why did you have to leave us so soon 😔. This loss feels so unbearable. My heart is completely shattered and still no answers, no communication. All we want is a thorough, honest, transparent investigation. We love you baby boy 🩵#WhatHappenedToNolanWells #JusticeForNolanWells #Forever18 🕊️🩵

♬ original sound – Courtney Thomas Bambi

Parents Question What Happened Before Nolan’s Death

More details continue to emerge surrounding the heartbreaking case of Nolan Xavier Wells, as his family previously opened up about the questions they still have surrounding his final moments. As The Shade Room previously reported, Nolan’s parents, Elmore and Christine Wonsley, spoke with ‘Good Morning America’ about whether their son would have willingly remained behind on Horn Island, with Elmore saying he doesn’t believe Nolan would have separated from his group.

Elmore explained that the family always taught Nolan the importance of staying with the people he arrived with, saying, “If you go with five, you come back with five,” and questioned why his son would have gone against that lesson. Christine also shared that Nolan was someone who regularly checked in with his family, but she said he did not reach out on July 4th. At the time, she didn’t immediately become concerned because she knew he was enjoying his final weekend before returning to school and preparing for camp season.

RELATED: Gone Too Soon! Nolan Xavier Wells’ Close Friends Share Heartfelt Tributes Following His Tragic Passing (PHOTOS + VIDEOS)

It’s always a good day when a Western is making waves on streaming — and all the more so when it’s a film that never got its due at the box office. And if you hop over to Netflix right now, you’ll discover exactly that: the platform’s number eight most popular movie in the U.S. is the largely unknown 2021 Western Old Henry.

In one of his handful of features as a leading man — and his first horse opera since The Ballad of Buster Scruggs — Tim Blake Nelson leads the offbeat charge as the titular hero in this fabulous Western that will challenge your perceptions of the genre.

‘Old Henry’ Is One of the Best Unwatched Westerns of the 21st Century

Image via Shout! Studios

Tim Blake Nelson may not be your typical pick for leading man, but when it comes to Old Henry, there’s no one else for the job. Set in the early 20th century, this underrated and criminally overlooked Western follows Oklahoma farmer Henry McCarty as a band of armed men claiming to be the law show up at his doorstep. This group, led by Stephen Dorff‘s charismatic Ketchum, are looking for a missing outlaw named Curry (Scott Haze), who likewise claims to be a lawman. Unsure of whom to trust, Henry — along with his young, looking-for-a-fight son, Wyatt (Gavin Lewis) — is caught between both men, and tries his darnedest to stay out of it altogether. But when violence arrives at his doorstep, the widower can do nothing but wage a one-man war against the party, fighting to keep this life he’s found for himself. Though Old Henry probably isn’t going to come up in casual Western conversation, the results speak for themselves. It truly is an excellent film.

Those looking for something action-packed like James Mangold‘s 3:10 to Yuma or a historical epic like Kevin Costner‘s Dances with Wolves will be disappointed; that’s not what Old Henry is. While the film itself plays no games in its meditations on violence and murder, it prides itself on its intimate, character-driven approach to the Old West. We understand from the very beginning that Henry’s a patient man with a violent past, one who has fought every way he can to leave those old ways behind. He’s also a man of tragedy, and that tragedy is what prompts him to protect his son, keeping him away from firearms and anything resembling his old life.

The slow-burn tension is reminiscent of popular horse operas like Unforgiven, though it subverts the typical genre conventions by keeping McCarty’s true identity under wraps throughout, constantly emphasizing his desire not to fight. (Of course, his true name is only a “twist” if you don’t know your Old West history. It’s not too hard to figure out, but you may appreciate the film more if you don’t look it up.)

Tim Blake Nelson Is a Brilliant Western Gunslinger in ‘Old Henry’

In an effort to keep his son away from the life he once lived, Nelson’s tired old former gunslinger does his best to avoid the conflict entirely. It’s only when he’s forced to confront those who refuse to take no for an answer that he proves himself one of the best Western heroes of the 21st century.

Old Henry concludes with a major twist at the end that solidifies its sobering excellence. The expert craftsmanship of writer-director Potsy Ponciroli is on full display, making this compelling Western a strong testament to the importance of the genre, even all these years after its heyday. Rather than live in the myths of the West, it takes a more revisionist approach by emphasizing Henry’s inability to fully leave that past behind — and reminds the viewer that the legends we’re told are rarely ever the end of the story.

Those who have yet to be initiated into the masterpiece that is Old Henry ought to know right off the bat that Nelson kills it. Henry goes from a humble man of the land to a gun-toting killer in no time, but does so with a meekness that refuses to betray his competence with a weapon. The character’s stoic countenance and mysterious demeanor are simply magnetic, and the farthest cry from Nelson’s previous Western role as the cheerful, happy-go-lucky Buster Scruggs. Old Henry offers plenty of gritty and violent action (that third act is seriously brutal) and period-accurate suspense, and narrative similarities make it exist almost a companion piece to films like Sam Shepard’s underrated Blackthorn. But make no mistake, Old Henry rides laps around the competition, and has been considered one of the best Westerns of the last two decades for a reason. If you haven’t already, add this one to your Netflix watchlist today!

Old Henry is available for streaming on Netflix.

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Old Henry

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Release Date

October 1, 2021

Runtime

99 minutes

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Director

Potsy Ponciroli

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