A supernatural Western horror film named Killing Faith, released last month, is now available for streaming and rental on major platforms like Prime Video, Plex, and Apple TV. The movie has drawn attention after famed horror writer Stephen King endorsed it, calling it an authentic shocker, highlighting its tension and unsettling atmosphere.
Written and directed by Ned Crowley, Killing Faith combines horror and Western genres to explore a mother’s desperate belief that her daughter is possessed. This gripping story unfolds across the plague-stricken deserts of the Arizona territory in 1849, where sickness, violence, and darker forces shape the American West. The film features a strong ensemble cast, including Guy Pearce, DeWanda Wise, Raoul Trujillo, Jamie Neumann, Jack Alcott, Joanna Cassidy, Emily Ford, and Bill Pullman.
Positive Critical Response and Stephen King’s Endorsement
After its October release in the United States, Killing Faith gained solid critical acclaim, earning an 80% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics praised its originality and bold approach to the Western genre, with Stephen King sharing his reaction on social media, saying,
“KILLING FAITH: 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
In addition to King’s endorsement, Clint Worthington of RogerEbert.com gave the film high marks, remarking,
“Minor sins are easy to forgive for such a bold, idiosyncratic anti-Western as this, the kind we don’t often get.” – Clint Worthington, RogerEbert.com
Phil Hoad from The Guardian awarded the movie a 4 out of 5, noting its distinctive silhouette, while Eddie Harrison of film-authority.com also gave it a 4 out of 5 and described it as,
“a Gothic Western camp-fire tale illuminated with sudden, surprising busts of violent action, Killing Faith is a well-constructed and engagingly-played movie with plenty of star-power to offer…worth seeking out in a S. Craig Zahler meets True Grit vibe.” – Eddie Harrison, film-authority.com
Thom Ernst of Original Cin gave Killing Faith an A- grade and commented,
“Is it worth seeing? Absolutely. Because sometimes it’s the films that bewilder us that leave the deepest marks: hoofprints on wet grass, difficult to follow but impossible to forget.” – Thom Ernst, Original Cin
Plot and Setting Emphasize a Haunting, Unsettling Atmosphere
Killing Faith takes place in the 1849 Arizona territory during a devastating plague, where the protagonist confronts a mix of violence, fear, and eerie supernatural elements. The storyline focuses on a mother’s intense struggle as she tries to protect her daughter, believed by others to be cursed. This cocktail of disease, superstition, and desperation creates a tense environment that amplifies the movie’s unnerving tone.
The setting in the harsh, plague-ridden deserts provides a stark, bleak backdrop that complements the film’s exploration of belief and fear. The cast’s performances, especially those of Guy Pearce, DeWanda Wise, and Bill Pullman, help bring this dark tale to life, weaving together suspense with emotional urgency.
Cast Highlights and Notable Contributions
The cast includes several well-known actors lending depth and authenticity to this supernatural Western. Guy Pearce plays a significant role, supported by DeWanda Wise as the desperate mother, Sarah. Raoul Trujillo, Jamie Neumann, and Jack Alcott add further gravitas, while Joanna Cassidy and Emily Ford contribute to the film’s haunting atmosphere. Bill Pullman’s involvement adds additional star power, balancing the ensemble with his seasoned presence.
Streaming Release Could Boost the Film’s Cult Status
Despite underwhelming box office results, Killing Faith now streaming on various platforms may gain wider recognition as audiences discover its unique blend of horror and Western elements. The combination of strong critical praise and Stephen King’s approval suggests the film could build a cult following among fans of genre-bending movies.
The film’s uneasy tone and suspense-filled narrative, supported by a talented cast and thoughtful direction from Ned Crowley, present a fresh addition to the world of Western horror. With its release across streaming services, Killing Faith might leave a lasting impression on viewers who appreciate unsettling stories set against historic American landscapes.
KILLING FAITH: 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 (@StephenKing) September 29, 2025
