The Horseman: A Modern Western Classic Starring Barry Pepper and Kiefer Sutherland
Barry Pepper and Kiefer Sutherland are set to star in a new Western film titled The Horseman, scheduled for release in early 2027 on Scripps Networks' cable channel Grit. Directed by Rod Lurie and co-written by Pepper, the film is set in the late 1800s during America's oil rush. Pepper plays "The Man," a grieving father who forms a deep bond with a young colt, his only companion. When they are separated, he must take drastic measures to reunite with his beloved horse.
Sutherland portrays the film's antagonist, a wealthy and ruthless aristocrat who will stop at nothing to gain power and land. The cast also includes C. Thomas Howell, Tzi Ma, and Ryan Michelle Bathe. The Horseman is currently being filmed in Canada and is produced in association with Peace River Pictures and Scripps Networks, with Nomadic Pictures holding global distribution rights.
Pepper drew inspiration for the film from classic Westerns like The Good, The Bad & The Ugly and Pale Rider, aiming to create a character reminiscent of the mysterious drifters portrayed by Clint Eastwood and Gary Cooper. The story of The Horseman evolved from Pepper's experience working with horses on the set of True Grit, highlighting the profound bond between humans and these majestic animals.
Scripps Networks' senior vice president of programming, Adam Harman, expressed excitement for The Horseman, noting its appeal to Western genre enthusiasts and modern audiences alike. Director Rod Lurie praised Pepper's screenplay for blending traditional Western elements with emotional depth, making the film a unique and compelling project. Nomadic Pictures co-chairman Chad Oakes commended the collaboration with Scripps Networks and the talented cast and crew involved in bringing The Horseman to life.
With a stellar cast, a captivating storyline, and a dedicated production team, The Horseman promises to be a modern Western classic that will resonate with audiences for years to come. Fans of the genre can look forward to an immersive and emotionally resonant cinematic experience when the film hits screens in 2027.