‘Let Him Go’ Review: Diane Lane and Kevin Costner Head Up a Floridly Gripping Thriller

Let Him Go Review: Diane Lane and Kevin Costner Lead a Gripping Thriller

Let Him Go, starring Diane Lane and Kevin Costner, is a suspenseful thriller that combines elements of family drama with intense action. Set in the vast landscapes of Big Sky Country in the 1960s, the film follows an aging rancher couple determined to rescue their grandson from a dangerous in-law family. With a storyline that fuses deep emotional stakes with gripping tension, Let Him Go proves to be a thrilling and heartfelt journey.

The film opens with Margaret and George Blackledge (Lane and Costner), a retired lawman and his strong-willed wife, living peacefully on their Montana ranch alongside their son James, his wife Lorna, and their young son Jimmy. Their tranquil life is shattered when James tragically dies in a freak accident. Three years later, Lorna remarries Donnie Weboy, a man who appears polite and wholesome but soon reveals his abusive nature. When Donnie abruptly takes Lorna and Jimmy to North Dakota without warning, Margaret and George embark on a dangerous journey to bring their grandson home.

As they search for their grandson, the Blackledges hear disturbing rumors about the Weboy family, a notorious clan that wields power with an iron fist. The Weboys, led by the chilling matriarch Blanche Weboy (Lesley Manville), live in a foreboding farmhouse where their sinister presence dominates. Margaret and George quickly realize they are up against a ruthless family unwilling to let Jimmy go without a fight.

Lane and Costner deliver exceptional performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. Lane’s portrayal of Margaret is both determined and vulnerable, while Costner’s George is a weary yet steadfast protector. The chemistry between the two actors lends credibility to their characters’ enduring love and unwavering commitment to family.

Director Thomas Bezucha masterfully adapts Larry Watson’s 2013 novel, crafting a film that balances moments of tenderness with high-stakes confrontation. The film transitions from a detective story into a gripping Western gothic thriller, with scenes that build suspense to a boiling point. The Weboys are portrayed with deliciously sinister flair, particularly Manville’s Blanche, who exudes a menacing charm that makes every interaction tense and unpredictable.

While Let Him Go contains moments of action, it is far from a mindless shoot-’em-up film. Instead, it offers a thought-provoking exploration of justice, sacrifice, and the lengths one will go to for family. The film’s climax delivers an emotionally charged resolution that is both devastating and cathartic, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

Overall, Let Him Go is a well-crafted thriller that captivates with its compelling performances, atmospheric setting, and gripping narrative. Lane and Costner’s powerhouse performances anchor the film, making it an unforgettable experience that lingers long after the credits roll. With its blend of suspense, emotion, and raw intensity, Let Him Go stands out as a must-watch thriller that refuses to let go.

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