‘The Bygone’ (2019) Movie Review

I recently checked out the new Western Thriller, The Bygone. This film was co-directed and co-written by Graham Phillips and Parker Phillips. Graham Phillips also stars alongside Jacqueline Toboni, Shawn Hatosy, Ritchie Coster, Jamie McShane, and Irene Bedard.

Synopsis for The Bygone

When a young rancher crosses paths with a Lakota girl from a nearby reservation, her mysterious disappearance sparks a search that uncovers a harrowing past and hints at a dire future.

Western films aren’t usually my cup of tea, but there are some I fancy quite a bit and when paired with horror and suspense… my interest instantly peeks. The Bygone has a bit of everything. Drama, suspense, lust, action, violence, blood, and more. It’s like the Nicholas Spark of Westerns if you will.

Graham Phillips is not only a phenomenal director but is also a fantastic actor. Phillips is one of the best things about the film. His performance is genuine and packed full of chivalry and determination. Usually, in situations like this, I would instantly roll my eyes at the thought of guy dropping everything for a girl he just met. But this was different. It wasn’t so much about love, but more about doing the right thing. It would be easy to look away and forget, but he didn’t.

I also really enjoyed the set design and cinematography. It fit perfectly with the tone and atmosphere of the film. That sense of dread and hopelessness hovering over everything. Along with this, the score by Brad Smith was exceptional and mixed well with the tone of the film. It definitely helped suck me into the story and feel more a part of it.

Final Thoughts

If you love a good Western with heavy violence and suspense, this film is for you. The Bygone is now available on Digital, so check it out and let us know what you think!