When it comes to modern Westerns, Taylor Sheridan is the undisputed king. His hit series Yellowstone has captivated audiences with its mix of family drama, stunning landscapes, and brutal power struggles. But what if I told you that two years before Yellowstone premiered, Sheridan wrote a movie that captures the same rugged, lawless spirit?
If you’re a true Yellowstone fan, this is the film you need to watch. Let’s dive into what makes this hidden gem a must-see.
Who Is Taylor Sheridan? The Mastermind Behind ‘Yellowstone’
Before we get to the movie, let’s talk about Taylor Sheridan’s rise to fame. You probably know him for Yellowstone, but he’s been shaping the modern Western landscape for years.
From Actor to Acclaimed Writer
Sheridan started his Hollywood career as an actor, with roles in shows like Sons of Anarchy. But his true calling was screenwriting, where he redefined gritty, neo-Western storytelling.
The Sheridan Signature: Grit, Drama, and Rugged Americana
Sheridan’s works, from Sicario to Hell or High Water, showcase his love for rugged landscapes, moral dilemmas, and no-nonsense storytelling. And that brings us to the film that foreshadowed Yellowstone’s success.
The Movie That Paved the Way for ‘Yellowstone’
So, what’s the movie every Yellowstone fan should watch?
It’s Wind River (2017)—a gripping crime thriller set in the harsh wilderness of Wyoming.
What is ‘Wind River’ About?
Written and directed by Sheridan, Wind River follows Cory Lambert (Jeremy Renner), a skilled tracker, and FBI agent Jane Banner (Elizabeth Olsen) as they investigate a brutal murder on a Native American reservation.
Much like Yellowstone, it delves into themes of justice, survival, and the untamed American West.
Why ‘Wind River’ Is a Must-Watch for ‘Yellowstone’ Fans
If you love Yellowstone, here’s why Wind River should be on your watchlist.
1. The Setting Feels Like a Dutton Ranch Spinoff
The remote, icy landscapes of Wind River mirror the harsh beauty of Montana’s Dutton Ranch.
2. The Same Gritty, No-Nonsense Storytelling
Sheridan’s signature style is raw, intense, and emotionally charged—exactly what makes Yellowstone so addictive.
3. A Story Rooted in Real-World Struggles
Just like Yellowstone tackles land disputes, power struggles, and political corruption, Wind River shines a light on the struggles faced by Indigenous communities.
4. A Cast That Delivers Unforgettable Performances
Jeremy Renner and Elizabeth Olsen bring the same rugged energy and emotional depth that Kevin Costner, Cole Hauser, and Kelly Reilly bring to Yellowstone.
5. Themes of Justice and Revenge
If you love watching the Duttons take matters into their own hands, you’ll appreciate the way Wind River explores justice in a lawless land.
Taylor Sheridan’s Storytelling Evolution: From ‘Wind River’ to ‘Yellowstone’
Sheridan’s shift from film to TV wasn’t just a career move—it was a natural progression of his storytelling style.
From Big Screen to Small Screen: A Seamless Transition
Sheridan’s tight, character-driven narratives in movies like Wind River and Hell or High Water set the stage for the sprawling, multi-season drama of Yellowstone.
Why ‘Yellowstone’ Became a Cultural Phenomenon
With its Shakespearean family drama, political intrigue, and cowboy action, Yellowstone took what worked in Sheridan’s films and expanded it into an epic TV saga.
The Influence of ‘Wind River’ on ‘Yellowstone’
Wind River laid the foundation for Yellowstone in ways you might not have noticed.
1. Similar Themes
Both stories explore survival, justice, and the struggle against powerful forces.
2. A Deep Respect for Native American Culture
Yellowstone and Wind River both highlight the struggles of Indigenous communities in the modern American West.
3. Visually Stunning Cinematography
Both projects feature breathtaking landscapes that serve as characters in their own right.
4. Strong, Silent Heroes
If you love John Dutton’s stoic toughness, you’ll appreciate Jeremy Renner’s portrayal of Cory Lambert.
Where to Watch ‘Wind River’
Ready to watch? Wind River is available on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu.
Trust me—once you’ve seen it, you’ll notice its fingerprints all over Yellowstone.
Final Thoughts: The Film That Every ‘Yellowstone’ Fan Should Watch
If you’re obsessed with Yellowstone, watching Wind River is like discovering a prequel you never knew existed. It’s Sheridan at his best—raw, emotional, and deeply cinematic.
So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be blown away.
