Stephen King has endorsed the new western horror film Killing Faith, which premiered with a strong Rotten Tomatoes rating of 83%. Known for his influential horror novels like Carrie, IT, and The Shining, King’s approval of Killing Faith highlights the film’s unique blend of supernatural western elements and intense storytelling.
A Gripping Tale Set Amid 1849 Arizona’s Plague
Directed by Ned Crowley, Killing Faith unfolds in the plague-stricken deserts of 1849 Arizona, where sickness and violence threaten survival. The story follows a doctor named Bender, portrayed by Guy Pearce, who must escort Sarah, a former slave played by DeWanda Wise, and her ailing daughter across dangerous territory. As they journey through this harsh landscape, locals begin to suspect the young girl may be under a sinister curse.
Stephen King shared his impressions of the movie via his X account, describing it as
“a quasi-supernatural Western that has echoes of Cormac McCarthy. The first scene, involving a child and a horse, is an authentic shocker.”
—Stephen King, Author
The mention of Cormac McCarthy connects Killing Faith to a tradition of gritty western narratives, referencing McCarthy’s acclaimed works such as No Country for Old Men and Blood Meridian.
Killing Faith Fuses Horror and Western Genres to Critical Acclaim
Since its October 3 release, Killing Faith has captured the attention of horror enthusiasts with its 83% Rotten Tomatoes score, bolstered by King’s notable endorsement. The film’s combination of western atmosphere and supernatural horror aligns with the recent trend of genre blending seen in 2025’s horror resurgence, alongside titles like Sinners, Weapons, and Bring Her Back.
In the film, the central characters include Bender, the town’s dedicated doctor, Sarah, the formerly enslaved farmer, and the mysterious child portrayed by Emily Ford, who is believed to hold a deadly curse. King’s hint about the opening scene suggests the child’s eerie impact, involving a dramatic incident with a horse, sets a tense tone early on.
Although Killing Faith has not yet garnered widespread discussion, the backing from Stephen King—who rarely offers praise without merit—adds significant weight to its reputation. Unlike his endorsement of Black Phone 2, which some speculate was influenced by his son’s connection to that project, King’s support for Killing Faith stands independently, underscoring the film’s originality and impact.
Principal Cast and Characters in Killing Faith
The film’s cast brings depth and intensity to the narrative. Guy Pearce plays Dr. Bender, a driven and morally complex figure, while DeWanda Wise delivers a powerful performance as Sarah, navigating the dangerous journey with resilience. Bill Pullman appears as Ross, and Raoul Max Trujillo portrays Shakespeare, both contributing to the film’s atmospheric tension. Emily Ford’s portrayal of the enigmatic child adds a chilling presence pivotal to the plot’s suspense.
Killing Faith’s unsettling mix of western isolation and supernatural menace offers a fresh experience for horror fans seeking more than traditional scares. With Stephen King’s recommendation amplifying its profile, the film is poised to make a significant mark in this year’s horror landscape.
