Killing Faith, a supernatural Western horror film, is now available on video-on-demand platforms following its theatrical release on October 3. Stephen King praised the movie as an “authentic shocker” and described it as a “quasi-supernatural Western” with “echoes of Cormac McCarthy,” making the Stephen King supernatural Western a notable point of interest for fans of the genre.
A Unique Blend of Historical Drama and Supernatural Horror
Written and directed by Ned Crowley, Killing Faith is set in 1849 and follows a recently freed slave who believes her daughter carries a deadly curse. Concerned for the girl’s safety, she enlists the help of a widowed physician to journey through the dangerous West in search of a distant faith healer. As they travel, tensions rise due to differing beliefs about the daughter’s condition, creating a tense atmosphere throughout the narrative.
Notable Cast Enhances the Film’s Impact
The film features an impressive ensemble cast, including Oscar nominee Guy Pearce, known for The Brutalist, in the role of Bender. DeWanda Wise, seen in Jurassic World Dominion, plays Sarah, while Bill Pullman from Independence Day, Raoul Trujillo of Sicario fame, and Jamie Neumann from The Deuce also support the story. Additional cast members include Jack Alcott of Dexter: New Blood, two-time Emmy nominee Joanna Cassidy, Emily Ford from Outer Range, Josh McDermitt of The Walking Dead, Charlie Talbert, Keith Jardine, Andrew J. West, and Gail Cronauer, all contributing to the film’s strong performances and haunting atmosphere.
Critical Reception and Digital Release Details
Despite limited box office success, Killing Faith has garnered positive reviews, holding an 80% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised the film for its bold storytelling, striking visuals, and compelling mood, often referring to it as a “weird Western” with powerful acting. Stephen King’s endorsement, emphasizing the opening scene involving a child and a horse as an “authentic shocker,” underscores the film’s unsettling tone.
Now available for rental at $6.99 or purchase for $14.99 on platforms such as Prime Video, the movie’s digital release aims to reach a broader audience interested in supernatural Western stories.
Significance and Prospects for Killing Faith
Killing Faith stands out as a hybrid of historical drama and supernatural Western horror, elevated by a notable cast and King’s commendation linking it to the style of author Cormac McCarthy. While it has yet to find commercial success in theaters, the film’s availability on digital platforms may provide opportunities for wider recognition. Its tense narrative and atmospheric depth position it as an intriguing choice for viewers drawn to stories where mythology and harsh realities of the Old West intersect.
