Kevin Costner’s neo-Western thriller, which has been highly regarded among the recent wave of modern Western films, will be available for streaming on Peacock beginning January 1, 2026. Based on Larry Watson’s 2013 novel, “Let Him Go” delivers a powerful mix of drama and tension, diving deep into the evolving landscape of Western storytelling.
Costner and Lane Lead an Emotional Neo-Western
Directed, written, and co-produced by Thomas Bezucha, “Let Him Go” pairs Kevin Costner with Academy Award-nominee Diane Lane. They portray a married couple who embark on a dangerous journey after the disappearance of their grandson, setting the stage for an emotionally charged confrontation. Lesley Manville, Kayli Carter, Will Brittain, and Jeffrey Donovan round out the cast, adding depth to the film’s exploration of loss and resilience. The film not only builds on Costner’s established reputation in Westerns after his pivotal role in Taylor Sheridan’s “Yellowstone,” but also introduces a modern take within the genre.
Costner and Lane’s characters leave the relative safety of their Montana ranch to face a perilous challenge. As described,
“Following the loss of their son, a retired sheriff and his wife leave their Montana ranch to rescue their young grandson from the clutches of a dangerous family living off the grid in the Dakotas.”
The story’s urgent premise crafts a suspenseful backdrop, emphasizing both the vulnerabilities and steadfastness of the couple as they attempt to retrieve their grandson.
A Tense Thriller Full of Deep Characterization
Upon its 2020 release, “Let Him Go” drew acclaim from both critics and audiences. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an 85% approval among critics and 76% from its audience, according to aggregators like MovieWeb and insights from critics such as Julian Roman. Praise was largely given to the intense performances and the authenticity of character arcs, particularly in how the narrative blends adult drama with revenge-fueled tension.
Julian Roman commented on the film’s structure and tone, stating,
“Rival grandmothers fight for the custody of their grandson in a slow-burn, neo-western thriller. Let Him Go builds simmering tension until an explosion of graphic violence. The film takes the time to establish serious character depth before throwing its leads off the deep end. The pacing gets a bit sluggish, but revs up for the brutal climax. The period setting’s desolate landscapes add to the foreboding narrative.”
This observation highlights both the film’s gradual narrative build and its climactic violence, while foregrounding the importance of its setting in shaping the viewer’s experience.
Other critical voices, such as Collider, advised audiences not to expect a typical action film, but instead a sensitive twist on the vigilante story. The Chicago Sun-Times praised the synergy of Kevin Costner and Diane Lane on screen. RogerEbert.com emphasized the subtle craftsmanship, noting,
“Understated in its quiet rhythms and vast beauty, [Let Him Go] is fortified with strong performances and, eventually, punctuated by shocking moments of violence.”
The reviewers’ consensus underlines the unique intensity and the emotional complexity brought to the neo-Western genre through this film.
Recent Developments for Costner and the Genre
The release of “Let Him Go” on Peacock comes at a time when the Western and neo-Western genres are in flux, especially following Kevin Costner’s exit from “Yellowstone,” the Taylor Sheridan-created series that defined the modern Western for many viewers. New spin-offs and projects continue without Costner, while he grapples with the evolving legacy of his work, including his ambitious but troubled “Horizon” film franchise. The planned saga has encountered production delays and legal challenges, with
“Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2”
currently on hold and Costner facing lawsuits over alleged on-set misconduct.
Strong Ensemble Cast Drives the Narrative
“Let Him Go” features performances not only from Kevin Costner and Diane Lane but also a strong supporting cast. Lesley Manville delivers a memorable antagonist, while Kayli Carter, Will Brittain, Jeffrey Donovan, Booboo Stewart, and Ryan Bruce each contribute to the film’s layered portrayal of family drama and rural menace. Their roles lend authenticity and emotional gravity to a story that thrives on the interplay of character motivations and the stark environments in which they find themselves.
Looking Ahead to a New Audience
With “Let Him Go” set to join Peacock’s lineup in 2026, a fresh wave of viewers will experience the nuanced storytelling, intense performances, and evolving nature of the neo-Western genre. For fans of Kevin Costner and Western dramas alike, the film offers a compelling glimpse into how traditional themes are being recast for modern audiences, ensuring its continued relevance and impact in the world of contemporary cinema.
