The comparisons to Tarantino are inevitable: A revered genre re-imagined, copious casual violence and snarky dialogue. The big difference is that all of the main characters are Black and based on real people who roamed the Wild West. The plot follows a young outlaw (Jonathan Majors) who’s out for revenge, which also leads to 2 gangs fighting it out. The cast is loaded with exceptional talent doing great work, including Idris Elba, Regina King, LaKeith Stanfield, Delroy Lindo and R.J. Cyler, who provides the film’s few humorous moments. This is an impressive first-time feature for director Jeymes Samuel (also known as British singer/songwriter The Bullitts). His mastery of staging and his unique visual comments show a surefire flair for the job. His script succeeds in making almost every character sympathetic, even though they rob and kill with impunity. It’s always interesting to see a Hollywood genre reworked and this Western hits a snappy and entertaining new angle. 
(4 / 5)
