Let Him Go (2020)

A taut neo-Western thriller anchored by two powerhouse performances, Let Him Go transitions from genteel family drama to brutal revenge narrative—often catching viewers off guard in the best way.

• Quietly gripping setup: Set in 1961, subtitles inform us of a quiet Montana ranch where George (Kevin Costner), a retired sheriff, and his wife Margaret (Diane Lane) live in solemn peace following their son’s tragic death  Their peace shatters when they witness Margaret’s daughter-in-law Lorna being abused, prompting them to track Lorna and their grandson Jimmy into enemy territory—North Dakota—owned by the sinister Weboy clan 

• Shift in gears: While the first two acts muse over family dynamics and grief, the final act slides into full-blown, grisly violence, almost doubling down on the "B‑movie" vibe . This tonal pivot transforms the film into something far more visceral than initially expected.

• Diane Lane as Margaret
  Lane delivers a quietly powerful turn, showcasing maternal determination that evolves into righteous fury. The New Yorker aptly calls her “a stolid mama bear” . According to Time, her “invisible acting” makes her a standout, delivering emotion without artifice 
  Though more reserved, Costner effectively portrays a reticent ex-lawman whose love for his family drives him into danger. Their onscreen chemistry anchors the emotional heft of their desperate quest 

• Lesley Manville as Blanche Weboy
  As the chilling matriarch, Manville steals every scene she’s in. Her sociopathic calm is unnerving—she’s both captivating and menacing, anchoring the film’s dark midpoint 

• Character-driven tension: The film thrives on its grim emotional core—two grandparents driven by loss and love. Their slow-burn path toward confrontation builds genuine suspense .

• B-movie revenge payoff: The climax is a welcome, cathartic explosion of violence. Critics appreciate its leap into grindhouse territory, and many find the bold tonal switch both surprising and effective 

• Visual storytelling: With vast Montana skies and isolated homesteads, the cinematography evokes classic Western tropes. Ambient suspense pervades, thanks to measured pacing and Michael Giacchino’s subtle score 

• Uneven pacing: Some critics argue the story meanders in its early stages, only gathering real momentum later in the narrative .

• Jarring tonal shift: The transition from calm drama to violent thriller catches viewers off guard. While many welcome this shift, others contend the final act feels rushed or tonally inconsistent .

On Reddit, users describe the movie as unexpectedly intense:

“I felt like I was watching the Texas Chainsaw Massacre. If you like horror, check this film out!! It’s not what you are expecting” 

“Great acting and an interesting story… glued to the armchair, surprised by the acting capacity of the protagonists”

Let Him Go surprises with its emotional backbone and sudden bursts of violence, delivering a gripping mix of family drama, Western grit, and pulp vengeance. Diane Lane and Kevin Costner anchor the heart, while Lesley Manville elevates the chills. Though uneven in pacing, its payoff is visceral and memorable.

Rating: 7.5 / 10

• Pros: Superb central performances, unexpected tonal shift, atmospheric visuals

• Cons: Sluggish pacing early on, uneven tone in the climax

If you're drawn to character-rich dramas with a twist of gritty suspense, Let Him Go offers a dark, satisfying ride—especially for fans of neo-Westerns or older protagonists driven by profound loss.

A deceptively quiet family story that breaks into ferocious survival thriller—Let Him Go stakes its claim with top-tier acting and a bold final act. A gem for those seeking depth beneath the dust.