Netflix just added an intense crime thriller movie with 97% on Rotten Tomatoes — and there’s one big reason ‘Yellowstone’ fans shouldn’t skip it

Opinion
By published

‘Hell or High Water’ is that good

Jeff Bridges and Gil Birmingham in Hell or High Water
(Image credit: Lionsgate)

Shortly before Taylor Sheridan launched the “Yellowstone” empire, he wrote a trio of movies known as the “American Frontier Trilogy.” These aren’t spaghetti Westerns, or even narratively connected, but they each take part in the modern American West and explore dark corners of the human experience, with gripping narratives and compelling characters.

The trilogy starter, “Sicario,” and capper, “Wind River,” both got their flowers, and I see them frequently feature on “best movies of the 2010s” lists. But the middle chapter, “Hell or High Water,” was much praised upon release — with the film garnering a 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The viewer score is not far behind, htting 88%k, but it lhas fallen out of the general movie conversation. That’s a great shame because in my mind it’s the best of the three. Fortunately, it’s just arrived on Netflix this week, offering a fresh chance in the spotlight.

If you’re a fan of Sheridan’s “Yellowstone” universe, or just a Netflix subscriber looking for a highly engaging crime thriller to watch this weekend, “Hell or High Water” should be your first choice. After all, there’s a reason it was nominated for multiple Oscars, including Best Picture.

What is ‘Hell or High Water’ about?

HELL OR HIGH WATER - Official Trailer HD - YouTube HELL OR HIGH WATER - Official Trailer HD - YouTube
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Set in rural West Texas, Toby (Chris Pine) and his brother Tanner (Ben Foster) are bank robbers who believe their criminal spree is justified. Following the death of their mother from a long illness, their ranch has been left in deep debt due to a mortgage from Texas Midlands Bank.

Toby is the planner of the two and is eager to make a better life for his estranged wife and sons. Meanwhile, Tanner is a wild card, liable to lose his temper and take unnecessary risks. As the bank moves to foreclose on their property, they become desperate for money to clear their debt.

On their tail is Marcus (Jeff Bridges), a dedicated Texas Ranger, who is only weeks away from retirement. As the law catches up with the Howard brothers, they plot one final robbery, but all roads lead to a showdown between the two sides, and not everybody will come out of it alive.

Here’s why you need to stream ‘Hell or High Water’ on Netflix

Chris Pine as Toby Howard in "Hell or High Water"

(Image credit: Lionsgate / CBS Films / Pictorial Press Ltd / Alamy)

“Hell or High Water” swims in moral ambiguity. It’s not often you feel sympathy for the criminals, but Toby and Tanner’s plight is tough to stomach.

Their ill mother was sold a mortgage that would ensure the bank eventually takes the family's land, and the fact that oil has been discovered on the property only makes the situation all the more thorny. In many ways, the brothers’ bank robberies are framed as an act of true justice.

Of course, things aren’t quite so binary in “Hell or High Water,” and Jeff Bridges’ Marcus represents the other side of the coin. The dedicated lawman is trying to keep the order. He’s not cast as a villain. This makes the cat-and-mouse game all the more engaging. As a viewer, you’re never quite sure which side you want to “win” by the time the credits roll.

(L-R) Gil Birmingham as Alberto Parker and Jeff Bridges as Marcus Hamilton in "Hell or High Water"

(Image credit: Lionsgate / CBS Films / Moviestore Collection Ltd / Alamy)

Strong writing from Taylor Sheridan, sharp direction from David Mackenzie, and excellent performances from its core trio, Jeff Bridges, Chris Pine and Ben Foster, all combine to make an exceptional thriller. Oh, and I can't forget to praise the truly stunning cinematography as well.

Those looking for themetic depth will find it, but if you want an intense crime drama with a grounded tone and excellent suspense, you’ve got it in spades in “Hell or High Water.” It’s a thoughtful and very watchable thriller.

Don't ju “Critics Consensus” reads, “Hell or High Water offers a solidly crafted, well-acted Western heist thriller that eschews mindless gunplay in favor of confident pacing and full-bodied characters.”

(L-R) Ben Foster as Tanner Howard and Chris Pine as Toby Howard in "Hell or High Water"

(Image credit: Lionsgate / CBS Films / Moviestore Collection Ltd / Alamy)

“Hell or High Water” is actually the highest rated movie in the aforementioned trilogy, which is quite an achievement, as both “Sicario” and “Wind River” are also phenomenal movies. To stand out among such strong fellows, speak only to “Hell or High Water’s” undeniable quality.

However, if a morally ambiguous neo-Western isn’t the streaming pick you’re craving, here’s a guide to what's new on Netflix in February 2026.

Watch "Hell or High Water" on Netflix now

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Rory Mellon
Rory Mellon
Senior Entertainment Editor (UK)

Rory is a Senior Entertainment Editor at Tom’s Guide based in the UK. He covers a wide range of topics but with a particular focus on gaming and streaming. When he’s not reviewing the latest games, searching for hidden gems on Netflix, or writing hot takes on new gaming hardware, TV shows and movies, he can be found attending music festivals and getting far too emotionally invested in his favorite football team.

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