Sundance 2022

If I didn't know that Taylor Sheridan was busy creating a bazillion different TV Series, I would swear this was one of his films. This neo-western starring Thandiwe Newton 

After experiencing Hurricane Katrina, Sandra (Newton) left her job as a police officer in New Orleans and relocated to a secluded and frigid area in Montana with her mother. Now a professor at a university, she struggles with navigating the power dynamics and toxic masculinity at her workplace on a daily basis. So when she confronts two hunters trespassing on her property, and they disregard her warnings, she hits her breaking point, succumbing to her pent-up rage and pain. 

“God's Country” is definitely a slow burn, but I felt the pace suited the material perfectly. Newton gives an outstanding performance. The film touches on various social issues but with mostly mixed results because Sandra doesn't always exemplify sound decision-making. Her motives are often questionable. Still, it's an enjoyable watch, even though the ending escalates a bit beyond belief. 

— 3.5 / 5 ⭐