A Must-See For Yellowstone Fans: Taylor Sheridan's Film From Two Years Before

Laila Abdi

4 min read

Post on May 27, 2025

4.3

Share

Introducing Wind River – A Gritty Masterpiece

Released in 2017, Wind River predates "Yellowstone" and showcases Sheridan's masterful storytelling long before he became a household name. This isn't just a prequel in time; it's a prequel in spirit, revealing the thematic and stylistic seeds that would later blossom into the "Yellowstone" universe. The film garnered significant critical acclaim, praised for its stunning cinematography, compelling performances, and unflinching portrayal of a complex story. While its box office performance may not have matched the blockbuster success of his later projects, Wind River established Sheridan as a directorial force to be reckoned with.

• Key Actors and Roles: Jeremy Renner delivers a powerful performance as Cory Lambert, a seasoned game tracker, alongside Elizabeth Olsen as Jane Banner, an FBI agent investigating a murder. The supporting cast also includes Indigenous actors, providing authentic representation.
• Genre: A neo-western crime thriller, Wind River masterfully blends elements of mystery, drama, and action against the stark backdrop of the Wyoming wilderness.
• Themes Explored: Justice, grief, the challenges faced by Native American communities, and the harsh realities of life on a reservation are all powerfully explored.

Sheridan's Signature Style: A Look at the Directorial Vision

Sheridan's signature style is instantly recognizable in both Wind River and "Yellowstone." His morally ambiguous characters, often grappling with their own demons, populate both narratives. The landscapes of the American West are not simply backdrops; they are active participants in the storytelling, reflecting the harsh realities and internal conflicts of the characters.

• Cinematography and Visual Storytelling: Both Wind River and "Yellowstone" employ stark, realistic visuals to convey the emotional weight of their stories. The landscapes themselves are characters, contributing to the atmosphere of tension and isolation.
• Recurring Themes and Stylistic Choices: The exploration of justice, revenge, and the complexities of human nature are prevalent in both works. The morally gray areas inhabited by Sheridan’s characters are a hallmark of his distinctive storytelling.
• Realistic Portrayal: Sheridan’s commitment to realistic portrayals of characters and environments is a defining feature of his style, making both Wind River and "Yellowstone" deeply immersive experiences.

The Connection to "Yellowstone": Shared DNA and Thematic Echoes

The connection between Wind River and "Yellowstone" runs deeper than just the director's name. The thematic resonance and stylistic similarities are undeniable. Watching Wind River before "Yellowstone" enhances the appreciation of Sheridan's overarching narrative vision and provides a deeper understanding of his character development.

• Thematic Links: Both explore the themes of justice, morality, and the struggles of those living on the fringes of society. The complex, flawed characters that populate both narratives grapple with similar internal and external conflicts.
• Shared Crew Members: While not a direct sequel, some crew members worked on both productions, contributing to the consistency in visual style and storytelling techniques.
• Landscapes and Settings: Both films utilize the stunning, yet often unforgiving, landscapes of the American West to add depth and power to the narratives. The environment isn't just a setting; it's a character in itself.

Where to Watch Taylor Sheridan's Pre-"Yellowstone" Film

Wind River is readily available for streaming and purchase on various platforms. You can find it on services such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and others. Availability may vary depending on your region, so check your local streaming services for availability.

Conclusion: Don't Miss This Essential Viewing for Yellowstone Fans

Wind River's critical success, its thematic resonance with "Yellowstone," and the unique directorial vision of Taylor Sheridan all combine to make it essential viewing for any fan of the "Yellowstone" universe. It's a showcase of Sheridan's talent before his meteoric rise to fame, providing a deeper appreciation for the storytelling that would later define his signature style. Dive into Taylor Sheridan's pre-"Yellowstone" masterpiece, Wind River, and experience the gritty storytelling that launched a phenomenon. Share your thoughts in the comments below! #YellowstoneTV #TaylorSheridan #WindRiver #PreYellowstone