Legendary Lawman and Gunslinger Wild Bill Hickok, is tasked with taming the wildest cow-town in the West, while delivering his own brand of frontier Justice and infamous gunfighter’s reputation as the fastest draw in the West is put to the test
Hickok is a 2017 American Western film directed by Timothy Woodward Jr. , featuring Luke Hemsworth as James Wild Bill Hickok, Trace Adkins as Phil Poe, Kris Kristofferson as George Knox, and Bruce Dern as Doc Rivers O’Roark.
The film portrays the legendary lawman and gunslinger, Wild Bill Hickok, as he is assigned to bring order to the unruly town of Abilene, Kansas. Upon his arrival, Hickok encounters a town rife with corruption, lawlessness, and a brewing conflict between cattle ranchers and local businessmen. As Hickok attempts to implement his brand of frontier justice, he faces numerous challenges, including personal vendettas and the complexities of maintaining order in a volatile environment.
The narrative delves into Hickok’s internal struggles, highlighting his efforts to balance his reputation as a formidable gunfighter with his desire to establish lasting peace in Abilene. The film explores themes of justice, morality, and the personal cost of upholding the law in a lawless land.
Main Themes
- Justice and Morality: The film examines the complexities of justice in a frontier town, where the line between right and wrong is often blurred. Hickok’s character embodies the struggle to enforce the law while grappling with personal morals and the harsh realities of the Old West.
- Corruption and Power: Hickok portrays a town where corruption runs deep, and power struggles are prevalent. The narrative highlights how individuals and groups vie for control, often at the expense of the community’s well-being.
- Identity and Reputation: The film explores how Hickok’s legendary status influences his actions and interactions with others. It delves into the pressures of living up to a formidable reputation and the personal sacrifices involved in maintaining it.
- Conflict and Resolution: Central to the plot is the theme of conflict—both external and internal. Hickok’s journey is marked by his efforts to resolve disputes, confront adversaries, and seek personal redemption.
- Isolation and Loneliness: The film touches on the theme of isolation, portraying Hickok as a solitary figure who, despite his interactions with others, remains fundamentally alone in his quest for justice.
Impact of the Movie
Hickok received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 50% approval rating based on 8 reviews, with an average rating of 5. 5/10.
Critics have noted that while the film offers a familiar Western storyline, it lacks the depth and originality expected from the genre. Some reviews describe it as a mediocre, low production value Western full of melodrama and clichés.
Despite the critical reception, the film has been appreciated by some viewers for its portrayal of Wild Bill Hickok’s character and the Western setting. The performances of the cast, particularly Bruce Dern, have been highlighted as a positive aspect of the film.
7 Reasons to Watch Hickok
- Authentic Western Setting
- Hickok immerses viewers in the rugged landscapes and towns of the Old West, capturing the essence of the frontier era. The film’s setting provides a nostalgic experience for fans of Westerns, showcasing the challenges and beauty of the American frontier.
- The attention to detail in the town’s design, costumes, and props enhances the authenticity of the setting, making it a visual treat for those who appreciate the historical aspects of Western films.
- Strong Performance by Bruce Dern
- Bruce Dern delivers a compelling performance as Doc Rivers O’Roark, adding depth to the film’s character dynamics. His portrayal brings a seasoned presence to the narrative, enriching the storytelling.
- Dern’s experience in Westerns adds authenticity to his role, and his nuanced performance provides a contrast to the younger cast members, highlighting the generational differences within the film.
- Exploration of Wild Bill Hickok’s Legacy
- The film offers an opportunity to delve into the life and legend of Wild Bill Hickok, a fascinating historical figure. It provides insights into his character, motivations, and the challenges he faced as a lawman in the Old West.
- For history enthusiasts, Hickok serves as a cinematic exploration of a pivotal figure in American history, shedding light on the complexities of his persona and the myths surrounding him.
- Engaging Western Action
- The film features classic Western action sequences, including gunfights and horseback chases, that are sure to satisfy fans of the genre. These scenes are well-choreographed and add excitement to the narrative.
- The action sequences are complemented by a compelling storyline, making them integral to the plot and character development, rather than mere spectacle.
- Character-Driven Storytelling
- Hickok focuses on character development, providing a deep dive into the motivations and struggles of its central figures. This character-driven approach adds depth to the narrative, making the film more than just a typical Western action movie. The personal conflicts and moral dilemmas faced by Hickok and other characters enhance the emotional stakes, providing viewers with a more nuanced and engaging experience.
- The film’s exploration of Hickok’s internal struggles and the relationships he forms with other characters adds layers of complexity to the story, allowing for a more meaningful connection with the audience. This character-driven approach makes Hickok stand out in the Western genre, as it prioritizes human emotions and conflicts over simple action or spectacle.
- Themes of Justice and Morality
- Hickok is a film that delves into the complex themes of justice and morality, especially in a lawless environment. Hickok’s efforts to bring order to Abilene highlight the difficulties of maintaining justice when the rules are often subjective and influenced by personal biases.
- The film’s exploration of the personal cost of enforcing the law in a corrupt society is thought-provoking and will leave viewers questioning the balance between right and wrong. These themes resonate beyond the Western setting, as they touch on universal issues of power, authority, and the consequences of one’s actions.
- Nostalgia for Classic Westerns
- For fans of classic Western films, Hickok offers a sense of nostalgia, bringing back the familiar elements of the genre, such as rugged landscapes, gunfights, and morally complex heroes. The film pays homage to the classic Westerns of the past, while offering a fresh take on the story of Wild Bill Hickok.
- The film’s homage to traditional Western themes and tropes, combined with modern cinematic techniques, makes it a satisfying watch for those who appreciate the genre’s history and evolution. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Westerns or a newcomer to the genre, Hickok offers an engaging and nostalgic experience.
How Will You Feel After Watching Hickok?
After watching Hickok, you will likely feel a mix of admiration and contemplation. The film’s portrayal of Wild Bill Hickok as a complex, morally conflicted figure will leave you reflecting on the nature of justice, power, and the personal toll of enforcing the law. Hickok’s internal struggles and the challenges he faces in maintaining order in a corrupt town will resonate with anyone who appreciates stories about human perseverance and moral dilemmas.
The film’s action sequences and character-driven storytelling will likely keep you engaged throughout, and the performances, particularly by Bruce Dern, will leave a lasting impression. However, you may also feel a sense of melancholy, as the film touches on themes of isolation and the personal sacrifices that come with living up to a legendary reputation.
Ultimately, Hickok offers a reflective experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It is a film that challenges viewers to think about the complexities of morality, justice, and the human condition, all set against the backdrop of the rugged Old West. Whether you are a fan of Westerns or simply enjoy character-driven narratives, Hickok will leave you with a sense of reflection on the choices and consequences that define a man’s legacy.
