This Bloody Country

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Jeremy K. I throughly enjoyed this film. It’s a provocative depiction of similar trials that my great grandparents may have faced when they emigrated to Utah in this era. Ned and Lilith are compelling characters…and their story arc is satisfying, complex and believable. “No one is beyond redemption”. Josiah seems overly sanctimonious, but perhaps there were old dudes with misogynist views back in those days. This seems why church leadership shipped him off to Arizona. Amen to the priesthood of that man (D&C 121)…but, of course, Josiah isn’t beyond his own redemption either. I’ve always believed in the power in strength of pioneer women (my great grandmother’s journals illustrated this for me). Not only were they faithful, but they were also resilient and practical. This aspect of the story is satisfying and even fun at times. This film is provocative, thrilling and realistically emotional. The stellar cast, gorgeous cinematography and score complement the story. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/27/25 Full Review Douglas C I saw THIS BLOODY COUNTRY at the Utah International Film Festival in January of 2025, and it absolutely blew me away. It's a beautiful, intense story with great performances, wonderful and meaningful uses of the Utah landscapes, and a gritty atmosphere filled with tension, frustration, excitement, and longing. Martin Dingle Wall burns up the screen with his haunted, reluctant hero, while Larry Cedar serves well as a pious and equally strong-willed foil. Maggie Gwin is a revelation as a level-headed sister-wife caught between religious obligation and desire. I can't say enough good about this film, and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. THIS BLOODY COUNTRY is that amazing. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/23/25 Full Review Steve K Not your typical western. Rainey Qualley, should not remain in her sisters shadow for too much longer Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 10/22/25 Full Review Workman A story of redemption set against the untamed American frontier. Set in 1869, this western follows Ned, an armed guide burdened by a violent past, as he leads a polygamist family through the Arizona wilderness in search of a new beginning. What begins as a hired escort mission becomes a test of faith, morality, and survival when an outlaw gang sets its sights on them. Beneath the dust and gunfire lies a tale of redemption—one where flawed people find unexpected strength in the face of unforgiving circumstances. The film’s strongest thread is its emotional core. Ned’s quiet quest for atonement gives the journey purpose, while the family’s transformation—from fearful dependence to self-reliant courage—grounds the story in humanity. The redemption theme resonates more deeply than the religious context, making this a western that connects beyond its niche premise. Visually, the film captures the raw beauty of the frontier with striking natural lighting and scenic compositions. The period detail feels authentic, even if a few rough edges show in the staging and pacing. The sound design complements the setting with rustling winds and creaking saddles, though the score occasionally overwhelms key moments. Editing shines in the intimate exchanges but loses tension during the climactic fight, which ends too abruptly to land its full emotional weight. While the pacing drifts at times, the film’s steady buildup and final act reward patient viewers. Standout moments—such as Ned teaching the women to defend themselves—highlight themes of empowerment and survival in a patriarchal world. The ending, reminiscent of Shane, closes the story on a bittersweet note that feels earned. Not every element hits the mark, but the film succeeds in spirit. It’s a thoughtful western that values emotional redemption over spectacle—an imperfect yet heartfelt journey through guilt, faith, and the will to endure. Verdict: A rugged western about forgiveness and survival that, despite pacing flaws, rides home on sincerity and strong thematic purpose. Rated 4.5/5 Stars •  Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 10/22/25 Full Review Bud H. Interesting film, interesting characters and a unique story. The interplay between the male and female leads was vey well done; believable. The location provided stunning background. The last scene was a surprise. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/21/25 Full Review Carolyn M I really enjoyed this movie, watching it you could feel what the characters were feeling even when they did not speak. The cinematography was so beautiful and it captures the beauty of the characters and their emotions and the scenery. It kept me wanting more. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/21/25 Full Review Read all reviews

This Bloody Country

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