Where outlaws rule.|Sep. 24, 2021|Thailand | United States|94 Min.|R
Genre: Action;Adventure;Crime;Drama;Mystery;Thriller;Western
Description: During the early weeks of the pandemic lockdown, Western fans were pleasantly surprised by the unexpected popularity of Justin Lee’s indie film *Badland*, which climbed to No. 3 on Netflix’s Top 10 list. Whether it was the appeal of its star-studded cast, including Mira Sorvino, Bruce Dern, Trace Adkins, and Wes Studi, or simply the increased demand for Western action among homebound viewers, Lee began to establish himself as a recognizable name in the genre. His latest project, *Apache Junction*, is likely to attract the same audience that embraced *Badland*.
In *Apache Junction*, Lee maintains a deliberate pace, allowing the well-cast leads to develop their characters through dialogues that range from leisurely to suspenseful. While the film delivers the expected Western elements—gunfights, brawls, and damsels in distress—it also introduces unique twists. For example, a saloon brawl takes the form of a regulated prize fight, complete with a bell and rounds, overseen by a barkeep played by Thomas Jane. A sign above the bar emphasizes the establishment’s strict rules: “Unjustified Violence, Thieving, And Rape Will Not Be Tolerated. Offenses Will Result In Either Death Or Banishment.”
*Apache Junction* premiered on September 24 in limited theaters and on digital platforms, offering familiar yet refreshing Western storytelling for fans of the genre.
Cast director: Justin Lee
Cast actor: Stuart Townsend, Scout Taylor-Compton, Trace Adkins, Thomas Jane, Ed Morrone, Victoria Pratt, Edward Finlay, Danielle Gross, Phil Burke
Original name: Apache Junction