“A quiet farmer. A hidden past. A storm of violence.”
Old Henry (2021) is a gripping Western action-drama directed by Potsy Ponciroli, starring Tim Blake Nelson in a career-defining role. Set in the Oklahoma Territory in 1906, the film follows Henry McCarty, a widowed farmer living a secluded life with his teenage son, Wyatt. Their quiet existence is disrupted when they discover an injured man, Curry, carrying a satchel of cash. Reluctantly, Henry brings him into their home to recover.
Soon after, a group of men claiming to be lawmen arrive, led by the menacing Sam Ketchum. They assert that Curry is a dangerous outlaw and demand his surrender. As tensions escalate, Henry’s remarkable gunslinging skills emerge, hinting at a concealed identity. The film builds to a climactic revelation that Henry is, in fact, the legendary Billy the Kid, who faked his death to live a peaceful life. Forced to confront his past, Henry must protect his son and their home from the encroaching violence.
Premiering at the Venice Film Festival, Old Henry received critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling, Ponciroli’s direction, and Nelson’s standout performance. The film was recognized by the National Board of
Review as one of the Top Ten Independent Films of the year.
For fans of Westerns and character-driven narratives, Old Henry offers a fresh take on the genre, blending action with emotional depth.