Summary
- Old Henry reimagines Billy the Kid as an older man, challenging his traditional death story.
- Director Ponciroli’s film follows a fake death theory, showing Kid surviving and living peacefully.
- Old Henry offers a fresh take on Western history, providing an entertaining twist in the genre.
As a huge fan of Western films with a deep appreciation for the genre’s rich history, I was absolutely captivated by “Old Henry.” This thought-provoking and beautifully crafted film not only pays homage to the classic Western narrative but also brilliantly rewrites the mythology of one of the most iconic figures in American folklore: Billy the Kid.
When you think of a film genre that tends to put a new spin on real-life events, Westerns are usually at the very bottom of that list. Generally speaking, period piece dramas are usually the go-to category for this type of storytelling revisionism (see 1984’s Amadeus or 1995’s Braveheart for examples of this), but big screen productions involving the Wild West, sheriffs, and cowboys usually leaned into fact as this was more exciting than fiction.
During the unexpectedly short expansion period into the western United States, between approximately 1865 and 1895 (around 30 years), several legendary gunmen made indelible marks on history. Notable figures like Wyatt Earp, Jesse James, Butch Cassidy, and Doc Holliday gained prominence during this time. Some used their firearms to enforce the law, while others abused it for personal gain – often through bank or train robberies. The Western film industry’s resurgence in the 1940s played a significant role in preserving these names for future generations; figures such as Billy the Kid continue to be iconic American outlaws.
Henry McCarty, also known as Billy the Kid, had a short life of just 21 years before he passed away. The precise reason for his death is still a subject of debate, but it’s believed to have occurred in 1881 at the hands of Sheriff Pat Garrett. However, a recent independent film titled “Old Henry” produced by Hideout Pictures and distributed by Shout! Studios offers an alternative perspective. In this movie, Billy the Kid is portrayed as an older man residing on a small farm in Oklahoma with his son, disregarding the conflicting reports surrounding his death.
Featuring Tim Blake Nelson in the primary role, this thought-provoking western made it onto The National Board of Review’s esteemed list of top ten independent films the year it debuted. Following this significant recognition, let’s explore how this movie dared to rewrite history in the Western genre without sparking controversy among historians.
A Western Legend Lives On
At the Venice Film Festival in 2021, I came across a gritty and thought-provoking take on the legend of Billy the Kid. Instead of the usual wild west tale, we saw an older version of the outlaw, portrayed with respect and authenticity. The director, Potsy Ponciroli, truly impressed me with his down-to-earth camera work and writing. He not only directed but also penned the script, making this a compelling and groundbreaking cinematic experience.
With a rich acting background, including Delmar O’Donnell in “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” (2000) and Looking Glass in “Watchmen” HBO series, Nelson was an ideal choice for this role. He skillfully portrays an aggressive and ominous demeanor when safeguarding his home and its inhabitants. Yet, he demonstrates remarkable composure and calmness when dealing with perceived non-threats.
For individuals who prefer an atmospheric touch in Western films, Nelson skillfully adds depth to the silent moments through his expressive acting. He portrays a rancher whose age doesn’t hinder his need to prove dominance over a group of younger outlaws (Nelson). The ensemble cast includes Scott Haze (“Horizon: Chapter One”), Gavin Lewis (“Little Fires Everywhere”), Trace Adkins, Stephen Dorff (“True Detective”), and Richard Speight Jr (“Thank You For Smoking”). This movie boasts impressive performances all-around. Moving on from the production aspects of “Old Henry,” how does this film impact Billy the Kid’s legend?
Old Henry Rewrites History in the Best Ways
instead of Sheriff Pat Garrett being the outlaw’s killer as commonly believed, Henry feigned Curry’s death. When Curry’s gang came to Henry’s house seeking him, Henry’s words to his son – “Stay down; you’ll be okay” – triggered a revelation for the injured lawman.
In the game, I wasn’t really Henry who met his demise; instead, it was Billy the Kid. The storyline revealed that Garrett spared my life during our confrontation and allowed me to flee. Later on, Garrett orchestrated a hoax, making it seem as though I had perished. This way, the law would cease their relentless pursuit.
In my past life as an outlaw, I had a price on my head, constantly looking over my shoulder. But now, with a fresh start, I’ve left that behind me. I’ve tried out different jobs before eventually deciding to become a farmer. My wife passed away five years ago from tuberculosis, leaving me with just my son and my brother-in-law, as well as our small home. The new storyline in “Old Henry” adds depth to those who question the historical truth of Billy the Kid’s demise. And what makes this Western tale even more remarkable is that it doesn’t adhere to a straight-forward timeline, yet still manages to keep me engaged and entertained.
Old Henry is available to stream on YouTube, Google Play, and Prime Video.
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2024-07-21 17:01