Hell or High Water (2016) is a gripping neo-Western crime drama written by Taylor Sheridan and directed by David Mackenzie. Set against the harsh backdrop of West Texas, the film tells a powerful story of desperation, family, and justice in a changing America.
In a last-ditch effort to save their family land, brothers Toby (Chris Pine) and Tanner Howard (Ben Foster) begin robbing branches of the Texas Midlands Bank. Their goal is simple but urgent: pay off the reverse mortgage that threatens their late mother’s ranch. However, their spree quickly draws the attention of two determined Texas Rangers—Marcus Hamilton (Jeff Bridges), nearing retirement, and his partner Alberto Parker (Gil Birmingham).
As the brothers plan one final heist, tensions build. Tanner’s recklessness and Toby’s quiet resolve come into sharp contrast, while the Rangers close in. What follows is a suspenseful and emotionally charged showdown that questions the lines between right and wrong, law and survival.
Taylor Sheridan’s screenplay earned wide acclaim for its sharp dialogue and social commentary. Jeff Bridges, in particular, delivers a standout performance, earning an Oscar nomination. The film’s authentic portrayal of economic hardship and moral ambiguity, paired with striking cinematography, solidified its place as a modern Western classic.
Premiering at Cannes in 2016 and grossing nearly $38 million worldwide, Hell or High Water received four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. It is widely regarded as one of the defining films of Sheridan’s American Frontier Trilogy, alongside Sicario and Wind River.