What is Wind River about? A deep dive into Taylor Sheridan's neo-Western crime drama that Yellowstone fans might enjoy 

Wind River is an intense neo-Western crime drama directed and written by Taylor Sheridan. The movie had its initial premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 21, 2017. It was released in the U.S. on August 4, 2017.

Set against the backdrop of Wyoming's Wind River Indian Reservation, the story follows a fish and wildlife service agent (Jeremy Renner), and an FBI agent (Elizabeth Olsen), who join forces as they probe a young woman's murder.

The film not only captures the viewer through its intense narrative but also unearths serious social issues, particularly alarming rates of violence against Indigenous women.

To the fans of the acclaimed series, Yellowstone by Sheridan, Wind River provides an identical blend of raw storytelling and complex characters, making it a worthwhile watch for anyone interested in tales rooted in the modern American West.

Plot of Wind River

The film follows Cory Lambert, who finds the frozen body of 18-year-old Natalie Hanson. He then calls upon the FBI, which sends Special Agent Jane Banner to investigate this case. This case rapidly unfolds to become more than just a straightforward murder mystery.

As they delve deeper, Lambert and Banner engage with the harsh realities of life on the reservation while grappling with their demons. The investigation reveals that Natalie was r*ped and murdered brutally by men connected to an oil drilling site in the vicinity.

This discovery sparks a tense confrontation with local security guards, showing the lawlessness that can permeate such isolated regions. Critics have appreciated the film for its portrayal of systemic issues that Native American communities face, especially regarding violence against women and lack of proper law enforcement.

Themes and Cinematic Style

Taylor Sheridan's work in Wind River reflects his signature style, which combines intense character-driven narratives with socio-political commentary. The film explores themes of grief, justice, and survival in an unforgiving landscape. It presents a raw portrayal of the struggles faced by Indigenous people, particularly women who often fall victim to violence without sufficient recourse for justice.

Wind River is highly effective in the depiction of breathtaking scenes set against a rather desolate yet harsh winter atmosphere. This forms a metaphor in which the entire atmosphere mirrors their emotional coldness. The work of Yellowstone closely relates to such atmospheric storytelling and its impact on the plot development and characterization through the extensive scenery.

Comparison with Yellowstone

Fans of Yellowstone might also love Wind River, as both works are products of Taylor Sheridan's vision, sharing thematic elements such as family loyalty and loss.

What Yellowstone is for the modern ranching family to protect its land and lifestyle from outside threats, Wind River intends to bring the marginalized communities and their struggle for recognition and justice to the forefront.

Character dynamics in both stories are engaging. In Wind River, a personal attachment by Lambert toward Natalie's family provides depth to his quest for justice as a consequence of family bonds, the same way it functions in Yellowstone.

More than that, in both stories, some flawed heroes navigate treacherous environments while fighting their pasts. In summary, Wind River might prove to be a companion for fans missing Yellowstone. It offers a gripping narrative filled with tension and poignant social commentary, making it a must-watch for those interested in Sheridan's unique storytelling approach.

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Wind River is streaming on Apple TV+.

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