Rumer Willis stars in the new western “Trail of Vengeance,” which was released on Friday, May 23rd.
Eric Nelsen, James Landry Hébert, Gbenga Akinnagbe, Jeremy Sumpter, and Jeff Fahey also star in this film, which was directed by Johnny Remo (who co-wrote the screenplay with Daniel Backman).
Set in 1875, Katherine’s (Rumer Willis) life is shattered when her beloved husband Caleb (Jeremy Sumpter) falls victim to a murder orchestrated by the menacing Colonel Davis (Jeff Fahey), who hires Frank Cooper (Eric Nelsen) and Zeke (James Landry Hébert) as his henchmen.
Alone and overwhelmed, Katherine’s path crosses with John Scobell (Gbenga Akinnagbe), an American American man with a troubled past as a former Pinkerton Agent.
Despite initial reluctance, John is drawn to Katherine’s determination and the injustice of Caleb’s death. Together, they form an unlikely alliance fueled by a shared desire for retribution.
Rumer Willis commands every scene she is in as Katherine, and she literally kicks some serious butt in this movie. Watching Willis in “Trail of Vengeance,” feels like watching “Calamity Jane” all over again, and she is our Emily Beck Rickards.
Eric Nelsen is a powerhouse as the relentless Frank Cooper, while James Landry Hébert is impressive as the ruthless Zeke. At the same time, both actors are able to humanize their wicked characters.
Watching Nelsen and Hébert in “Trail of Vengeance” felt like watching the 2024 Tubi film “Butch vs. Sundance” all over again (on Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid), and they were our Ross Jirgl and Jilon VanOver respectively.
Gbenga Akinnagbe is a triumph as John Scobell. Jeff Fahey delivers a controlled performance as the ominous and nefarious Colonel Davis, while Jeremy Sumpter is a true catalyst in this film as Caleb.
Each actor in the cast has his or her own characterization, and they each bring something unique to the story.
Without giving too much away, this is an action movie that needs to be experienced by all. It is shimmering, and densely layered with heart at its core.
The Verdict
Overall, “Trail of Vengeance” is a first-rate western that will keep the audience at the edge of their seats.
Rumer Willis brings a rawness and boldness to the role that feels authentic without being overplayed, and it’s clear she’s someone to watch (and she will follow in parent’s footsteps).
“Trail of Vengeance” is a moving tale of resilience, justice, and redemption. It garners 4.5 out of 5 stars. Well done.
