It’s been less than a year since Yellowstone ended, yet some viewers may be missing the neo-Western series, and in that case, they should check out the following movies that are not only similar, but are available to stream today. Originally released in 2018, Yellowstone is a cornerstone of the neo-Western genre, exemplifying how the traditional themes of classic Western stories can apply to a modern-day setting and audience. Although Yellowstone hit some bumps in the road by the end of its run, namely the dramatic exit of Kevin Costner, the show mostly lives up to its legacy.
Yellowstone is far from the only neo-Western project to make a splash in the last few years, which makes it far easier to find something similar to watch. The show’s creator, Taylor Sheridan, has made a number of television series that are perfect after finishing Yellowstone. However, when it comes to movies in particular, the best films to watch after Yellowstone are those firmly situated in the Western genre, which may include notable stars from the show, and showcase important themes from Yellowstone such as family, crime, and dynasty.
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The Power Of The Dog
A Rancher Dislikes His Brother’s New Wife & Son
A great place to start on your post-Yellowstone journey is with the 2021 film, The Power of the Dog. Currently streaming on Netflix, this movie is about brothers George and Phil, who own a ranch in 1925 Montana. When George falls in love with an inn owner, Rose, she and her son move in with the brothers. However, Phil dislikes the newcomers, and turns their fresh start into a tense and violent experience. The film stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Jesse Plemmons, and Kirsten Dunst.
The Power of the Dog may be a period piece, but it tackles themes that are just as important today as they were back then. In particular, this film explores family, inheritance, trauma, and the relationship between the West and its people. Through each character, audiences see how the West can change an individual for better or worse. More than anything, The Power of the Dog will give viewers an experience of intensity and mystery that is on the level with, if not better than, Yellowstone.
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Blue Ruin
A Man Returns To His Hometown For Vengeance
For something more modern, and a bit more violent, viewers should pick up Blue Ruin. This 2013 movie centers on Dwight Evans, who discovers that the man who killed his parents 20 years prior is being released from jail. Determined to get his own version of violent revenge, Dwight returns to his hometown in Virginia. Soon enough, he gets tangled up with the killer’s family in a web of conspiracies and crime. The film is currently free to watch on Prime Video.
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Dances With Wolves
A Union Soldier Befriends A Local Tribe
If John Dutton is your favorite Yellowstone character, then looking into Costner’s Western movies is an absolute must. Arguably, one of his best projects to date is Dances With Wolves. The 1990 film revolves around a Civil War soldier who finds himself enamored with the way of life of a nearby tribe of Lakota people. Over time, he forms a bond with them, and decides to leave his life behind to join their tribe. However, when Union soldiers arrive to take over the land, he must decide who he really wants to fight for.
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God’s Country
A Woman Enters A Battle Of Wills
God’s Country is another neo-Western movie that will pique the interest of those seeking more modern Western films. Released in 2022, it follows a college professor who discovers two hunters trespassing on her land. She writes them a note requesting that they leave, only to find that they won’t be shooed away so easily. From there, she must make a stand, not just for her property, but for herself. God’s Country is streaming on Hulu.