Unveiling the Wilderness: 25 Captivating Movies Like Wind River

Watch Trailer

93%

92

8.2

In this neo-Western crime thriller, set against the harsh landscapes of West Texas, Llewelyn Moss stumbles upon a drug deal gone wrong and takes a briefcase filled with money. This act sets off a chain of violent events involving the relentless hitman Anton Chigurh, a determined sheriff, and the choices that define their destinies. Similar to "Wind River," "No Country for Old Men" delves into the unforgiving nature of the American frontier, weaving a suspenseful narrative around crime, justice, and the moral complexities that arise in the vast and desolate landscapes.

CAST

Tommy Lee Jones

Javier Bardem

Josh Brolin

Woody Harrelson

Kelly Macdonald

Garret Dillahunt

Tess Harper

Barry Corbin

Stephen Root

Rodger Boyce

Directed by Joel Coen

Watch Trailer

92%

82

7.7

In "Sicario," FBI agent Kate Macer joins a government task force led by enigmatic consultant Alejandro Gillick to combat the escalating drug war on the U.S.-Mexico border. As the team navigates the morally ambiguous and dangerous world of drug cartels, they face unsettling truths. Much like "Wind River," "Sicario" explores the harsh realities of law enforcement in challenging environments, dealing with themes of justice, morality, and the toll of violence. The film's atmospheric tension and complex characters parallel the tone found in "Wind River."

CAST

Emily Blunt

Benicio del Toro

Josh Brolin

Victor Garber

Jon Bernthal

Daniel Kaluuya

Jeffrey Donovan

Raoul Max Trujillo

Julio Cedillo

Hank Rogerson

Directed by Denis Villeneuve

Watch Trailer

94%

86

8.1

Set in the snow-covered landscapes of Minnesota, "Fargo" follows the bumbling car salesman Jerry Lundegaard as he hires two criminals to kidnap his wife for ransom. However, things quickly spiral out of control, involving pregnant police chief Marge Gunderson in a twisted tale of crime and deception. Like "Wind River," "Fargo" captures the essence of its snowy, remote setting, emphasizing the isolation and starkness of the environment. Both films use their locations to heighten tension, showcasing the impact of crimes on close-knit communities in chilling and thought-provoking ways.

CAST

William H. Macy

Frances McDormand

Peter Stormare

Steve Buscemi

John Carroll Lynch

Harve Presnell

Kristin Rudrüd

Bruce Bohne

Steve Reevis

Stephen Park

Directed by Joel Coen

Watch Trailer

97%

88

7.6

In "Hell or High Water," two brothers, Toby (Chris Pine) and Tanner (Ben Foster), embark on a series of bank robberies in West Texas to save their family ranch from foreclosure. Hot on their trail is Texas Ranger Marcus Hamilton (Jeff Bridges), who's determined to bring them to justice. This neo-Western crime thriller explores the economic struggles faced by rural communities and the complex dynamics between the law and those driven to desperate measures. Similar to "Wind River," it delves into the harsh realities of life in the American West, intertwining crime with poignant human stories against a vast, unforgiving landscape.

CAST

Jeff Bridges

Chris Pine

Ben Foster

Gil Birmingham

Marin Ireland

Kevin Rankin

Dale Dickey

William Sterchi

Kristen Berg

Katy Mixon

Directed by David Mackenzie

Watch Trailer

81%

70

8.1

"Prisoners" follows the gut-wrenching journey of Keller Dover (Hugh Jackman) and Franklin Birch (Terrence Howard), two fathers whose daughters go missing on Thanksgiving. Frustrated by the lack of progress from Detective Loki (Jake Gyllenhaal), Dover takes matters into his own hands, crossing ethical boundaries to find his daughter. The film, like "Wind River," is a tense exploration of grief, morality, and the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones. Both movies skillfully blend mystery with intense character development, showcasing the psychological toll of crime on individuals and communities.

CAST

Hugh Jackman

Jake Gyllenhaal

Maria Bello

Terrence Howard

Paul Dano

Viola Davis

Melissa Leo

Dylan Minnette

Zoë Soul

Wayne Duvall

Directed by Denis Villeneuve

2 degrees of seperation (similar to Prisoners)

from /15 Dark and Suspenseful Movies like "Prisoners"

Watch Trailer

89%

84

7.9

Directed by Clint Eastwood, "Mystic River" weaves a tragic tale around childhood friends Jimmy (Sean Penn), Sean (Kevin Bacon), and Dave (Tim Robbins), whose lives take divergent paths after a traumatic incident in their youth. When tragedy reunites them years later, long-buried secrets resurface, leading to a harrowing investigation. Like "Wind River," this atmospheric thriller deals with the aftermath of trauma and the impact on relationships within a close-knit community. Both films skillfully navigate the complexities of human emotion while unfolding gripping mysteries against the backdrop of their respective locales.

CAST

Sean Penn

Tim Robbins

Kevin Bacon

Laurence Fishburne

Marcia Gay Harden

Laura Linney

Kevin Chapman

Tom Guiry

Emmy Rossum

Spencer Treat Clark

Directed by Clint Eastwood

Watch Trailer

80%

64

6.7

In "The Grey," directed by Joe Carnahan, a group of oil workers survives a plane crash in the Alaskan wilderness. As they struggle against the harsh environment and a pack of relentless wolves, Ottway (Liam Neeson) emerges as their leader, leading the fight for survival. The film delves into themes of human resilience, the wilderness's unforgiving nature, and the primal instinct for survival. Similar to "Wind River," "The Grey" explores the challenges of nature and the human spirit, emphasizing the struggle against both external and internal forces.

CAST

Liam Neeson

Dermot Mulroney

Frank Grillo

Dallas Roberts

Nonso Anozie

James Badge Dale

Anne Openshaw

Jonathan James Bitonti

Ben Hernandez Bray

Peter Girges

Directed by Joe Carnahan

Watch Trailer

43%

56

6.7

Directed by Neil Jordan, "The Brave One" stars Jodie Foster as Erica Bain, a woman who becomes a vigilante after a brutal attack leaves her fiancé dead. Driven by a desire for justice and revenge, she takes matters into her own hands. The film navigates themes of trauma, vengeance, and the thin line between right and wrong. Much like "Wind River," it engages with the aftermath of violence, portraying the psychological toll on individuals and the quest for a semblance of justice.

CAST

Jodie Foster

Terrence Howard

Nicky Katt

Naveen Andrews

Mary Steenburgen

Ene Oloja

Luis Da Silva Jr.

Blaze Foster

Rafael Sardina

Jane Adams

Directed by Neil Jordan

Watch Trailer

93%

86

7.4

Todd Field's "In the Bedroom" is a poignant drama that explores the complexities of grief and revenge. Set in a small town, the film follows Matt and Ruth Fowler (Tom Wilkinson and Sissy Spacek), whose lives unravel after a tragedy involving their son. The movie delves into themes of loss, the search for justice, and the emotional aftermath of violence. Similar to "Wind River," it tackles the profound impact of crime on communities, depicting the ripple effects of a single tragic event and the emotional toll it takes on those left behind.

CAST

Tom Wilkinson

Sissy Spacek

Nick Stahl

Marisa Tomei

William Mapother

Karen Allen

Celia Weston

William Wise

Justin Ashforth

Kevin Chapman

Directed by Todd Field

Watch Trailer

92%

78

7.2

In "Insomnia," directed by Christopher Nolan, Detective Will Dormer (Al Pacino) travels to a small Alaskan town to investigate a murder. During a relentless pursuit, Dormer finds himself unable to escape the perpetual daylight, blurring the line between day and night. Similar to "Wind River," the film explores the psychological toll of an unforgiving environment, pushing its characters to their limits. As Dormer grapples with guilt and insomnia, the boundaries between right and wrong become increasingly blurred, echoing the moral complexities present in "Wind River."

CAST

Al Pacino

Robin Williams

Hilary Swank

Martin Donovan

Maura Tierney

Nicky Katt

Paul Dooley

Crystal Lowe

Jay Brazeau

Larry Holden

Directed by Christopher Nolan

Watch Trailer

88%

82

7.1

In "Frozen River," directed by Courtney Hunt, two financially struggling women, Ray (Melissa Leo) and Lila (Misty Upham), form an unlikely alliance to smuggle illegal immigrants across the U.S.-Canada border. Much like "Wind River," this film delves into the harsh realities of life in a remote, economically challenged region. The desolate landscapes become a character in themselves, shaping the choices of the protagonists. Both films portray strong female leads navigating through dire circumstances, shedding light on the resilience required to survive in such environments.

CAST

Melissa Leo

Misty Upham

Charlie McDermott

John Canoe

Jay Klaitz

Dylan Carusona

James Reilly

Michael O'Keefe

Mark Boone Junior

Betty Ouyang

Directed by Courtney Hunt

Watch Trailer

90%

81

7.5

Directed by Sam Raimi, "A Simple Plan" follows three friends (Bill Paxton, Billy Bob Thornton, and Bridget Fonda) who stumble upon a crashed plane containing a bag of money. As they decide to keep the cash, trust dissolves, leading to betrayal and violence. Similar to "Wind River," the film explores the moral unraveling of characters faced with difficult choices. Both movies share themes of isolation and the impact of unexpected events on the lives of ordinary people, showcasing how desperation and greed can drive individuals to make choices with far-reaching consequences.

CAST

Bill Paxton

Billy Bob Thornton

Bridget Fonda

Brent Briscoe

Jack Walsh

Chelcie Ross

Becky Ann Baker

Gary Cole

Bob Davis

Peter Syvertsen

Directed by Sam Raimi

Watch Trailer

7%

23

5.1

In "The Snowman," Detective Harry Hole, played by Michael Fassbender, investigates a series of gruesome murders where the killer leaves snowmen as his calling card. As Hole delves deeper into the chilling case, he uncovers a complex web of secrets and a connection to a long-forgotten cold case. Similar to "Wind River," "The Snowman" explores the psychological toll of crime investigations in harsh, unforgiving environments. Both films captivate audiences with intense atmospheres, mysterious plots, and a sense of isolation that heightens the suspense.

CAST

Michael Fassbender

Rebecca Ferguson

Charlotte Gainsbourg

Val Kilmer

J.K. Simmons

Toby Jones

Chloë Sevigny

Jonas Karlsson

Michael Yates

Ronan Vibert

Directed by Tomas Alfredson

Watch Trailer

44%

52

5.8

"Wind Chill" follows two college students, played by Emily Blunt and Ashton Holmes, who share a ride home for the holidays but find themselves stranded on a desolate winter road. As they face the chilling elements, they also encounter supernatural occurrences linked to a tragic event. Like "Wind River," this film combines the harshness of a winter setting with a suspenseful storyline, creating an atmospheric and gripping experience. Both movies explore themes of survival, isolation, and the unpredictable dangers that come with navigating remote landscapes.

CAST

Emily Blunt

Ashton Holmes

Martin Donovan

Ned Bellamy

Ian A. Wallace

Donny Lucas

Chelan Simmons

Darren Moore

Linden Banks

Caz Odin Darko

Directed by Gregory Jacobs

Watch Trailer

94%

90

7.1

In "Winter's Bone," Jennifer Lawrence stars as Ree Dolly, a young woman in the Ozarks who searches for her missing father in order to save her family from eviction. The journey leads her into a dangerous world of crime and secrecy. Much like "Wind River," "Winter's Bone" delves into the struggles faced by communities in isolated regions, portraying the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity. Both films showcase strong, determined protagonists navigating treacherous landscapes while confronting the harsh realities of their environments.

CAST

Jennifer Lawrence

John Hawkes

Kevin Breznahan

Dale Dickey

Garret Dillahunt

Sheryl Lee

Shelley Waggener

Isaiah Stone

Ashlee Thompson

Valerie Richards

Directed by Debra Granik

Watch Trailer

44%

51

6.7

In "The Call," 911 operator Jordan Turner (Halle Berry) receives a distressing call from a kidnapped girl in the trunk of a car. As she races against time to save the victim, Jordan becomes entangled in a chilling cat-and-mouse game with the abductor. Similar to "Wind River," this thriller delves into intense, suspenseful storytelling, exploring the psychological toll of high-stakes situations. Both films showcase the resilience of individuals facing adversity and the haunting impact of crime on those involved.

CAST

Halle Berry

Abigail Breslin

Morris Chestnut

Michael Eklund

David Otunga

Michael Imperioli

Justina Machado

José Zúñiga

Roma Maffia

Evie Thompson

Directed by Brad Anderson

Watch Trailer

82%

78

7.1

"Tracks" follows Robyn Davidson (Mia Wasikowska), an Australian woman who embarks on a solo trek across the desolate Outback with her dog and four camels. Like "Wind River," this film captures the harsh beauty of unforgiving landscapes, emphasizing the isolation and determination of its protagonist. Both movies share a thematic thread of individuals confronting the wild, whether it be the snowy expanses of Wyoming or the arid, sunburned terrain of the Australian Outback.

CAST

Mia Wasikowska

Adam Driver

Emma Booth

Jessica Tovey

Lily Pearl

Robert Coleby

Bryan Probets

John Flaus

Melanie Zanetti

Rainer Bock

Directed by John Curran

Watch Trailer

33%

51

6.1

Set against the backdrop of World War II, "Windtalkers" focuses on the Navajo code talkers, Marines who use their native language to transmit coded messages. Just as "Wind River" explores themes of justice and cultural challenges within a specific community, "Windtalkers" delves into the significance of preserving indigenous languages during wartime. Both films navigate the intersection of culture, duty, and the impact of external forces on the lives of those living on the fringes of society.

CAST

Nicolas Cage

Adam Beach

Peter Stormare

Noah Emmerich

Mark Ruffalo

Brian Van Holt

Martin Henderson

Roger Willie

Frances O'Connor

Christian Slater

Directed by John Woo

Watch Trailer

33%

3.5

"Wind Walkers" (2015) is a psychological horror-thriller directed by Russell Friedenberg. Set in the deep wilderness of Florida's Everglades, the film follows a group of Native American friends who reunite for a hunting trip. As they venture into the unforgiving landscape, they encounter a malevolent force that threatens their sanity and tests the strength of their bonds. The film delves into themes of cultural identity, trauma, and the supernatural. Much like "Wind River," "Wind Walkers" explores the harsh realities of remote environments and the impact of violence on indigenous communities, creating a tense and atmospheric narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

CAST

Glen Powell

Rudy Youngblood

Zane Holtz

Johnny Sequoyah

Kiowa Gordon

Phil Burke

Saginaw Grant

Christopher Kriesa

Directed by Russell Friedenberg

Watch Trailer

79%

72

6.2

In the atmospheric thriller "Sweet Virginia," a quiet Alaskan town becomes a hotbed of tension when a mysterious newcomer's presence sparks a series of violent events. Jon Bernthal's mesmerizing performance as a former rodeo star with a troubled past adds depth to the film. Much like "Wind River," "Sweet Virginia" explores the complexities of small-town life and delves into the consequences of buried secrets. The chilling atmosphere, nuanced characters, and suspenseful narrative create a gripping experience for viewers.

CAST

Jon Bernthal

Christopher Abbott

Imogen Poots

Rosemarie DeWitt

Odessa Young

Jonathan Tucker

Joseph Lyle Taylor

Garry Chalk

Jared Abrahamson

Gabrielle Rose

Directed by Jamie M. Dagg

Watch Trailer

53%

63

6.7

"Out of the Furnace" is a gritty drama centered around Russell Baze, played by Christian Bale, who seeks justice for his missing brother in a Rust Belt town plagued by economic decline. The film shares thematic similarities with "Wind River" as both delve into the harsh realities faced by communities grappling with economic hardship. The somber tone, powerful performances, and exploration of the impact of societal issues on individuals make "Out of the Furnace" a compelling and emotionally resonant film.

CAST

Christian Bale

Zoe Saldaña

Woody Harrelson

Sam Shepard

Willem Dafoe

Forest Whitaker

Casey Affleck

Boyd Holbrook

Tom Bower

Gordon Michaels

Directed by Scott Cooper

Watch Trailer

94%

84

7.6

Joel and Ethan Coen's directorial debut, "Blood Simple," is a neo-noir thriller that weaves a web of deceit, infidelity, and murder. The film's intricate plot and dark humor resonate with fans of "Wind River" who appreciate intense storytelling. Both films feature remote settings where the harsh environment becomes a character in itself, influencing the characters' decisions. "Blood Simple" showcases the Coen Brothers' signature style, providing a gripping tale of crime and consequences that aligns with the atmospheric and tense qualities found in "Wind River."

CAST

John Getz

Frances McDormand

Dan Hedaya

Samm-Art Williams

M. Emmet Walsh

Deborah Neumann

Raquel Gavia

Van Brooks

Señor Marco

William Creamer

Directed by Joel Coen

Watch Trailer

68%

64

6.4

In a dystopian Australian outback, "The Rover" follows Eric (Guy Pearce), a man relentless in his pursuit of a gang that stole his car. The post-apocalyptic world is harsh, mirroring the desolation found in "Wind River." Both films share an intense atmosphere and explore the theme of justice in unforgiving landscapes. As Eric's journey unfolds, he encounters Rey (Robert Pattinson), a wounded member of the gang, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. Directed by David Michôd, "The Rover" captivates with its bleak beauty and unyielding characters.

CAST

Guy Pearce

Robert Pattinson

Scoot McNairy

David Field

Susan Prior

Anthony Hayes

Tawanda Manyimo

Nash Edgerton

Gillian Jones

Richard Green

Directed by David Michôd

Watch Trailer

69%

63

5.6

Set in the Alaskan wilderness, "Hold the Dark" follows wolf expert Russell Core (Jeffrey Wright) as he investigates the mysterious disappearance of a child and the possible involvement of wolves. Like "Wind River," the film delves into the remote and treacherous setting, unraveling a dark and complex tale of loss and vengeance. Directed by Jeremy Saulnier, the movie navigates the chilling aspects of human nature against a stunning yet menacing backdrop, echoing the atmospheric intensity seen in "Wind River."

CAST

Jeffrey Wright

Alexander Skarsgård

James Badge Dale

Riley Keough

Julian Black Antelope

Tantoo Cardinal

Macon Blair

Jonathan Whitesell

Peter McRobbie

Beckam Crawford

Directed by Jeremy Saulnier

Watch Trailer

96%

78

7.1

"Blue Ruin" is a gripping revenge thriller that shares thematic similarities with "Wind River." Dwight (Macon Blair), a drifter with a traumatic past, returns to his hometown to seek justice for his family. Both films explore the consequences of violence and the quest for retribution in rural settings. Directed by Jeremy Saulnier, "Blue Ruin" engages with the aftermath of personal tragedy, weaving a tense narrative that resonates with the emotional depth and suspense found in "Wind River."

CAST

Macon Blair

Devin Ratray

Amy Hargreaves

Kevin Kolack

Eve Plumb

Stacy Rock

David W. Thompson

Brent Werzner

Sandy Barnett

Sidné Anderson

Directed by Jeremy Saulnier