Taylor Sheridan is known for making intense crime films, modern Westerns and powerful dramas. His stories often explore crime, justice, family and life in tough places. As a result, his movies appeal to fans who enjoy serious stories and strong characters.
Sheridan works as a writer, director, actor and producer. However, many fans know him best for his work on films such as Sicario, Hell or High Water and Wind River. Each movie has its own story, but they share a dark and realistic style.
If you want to explore Taylor Sheridan movies, this guide will help you get started. It covers his best-known films, explains what makes them special and suggests which ones to watch first.
What Are the Best Taylor Sheridan Movies?
Several Taylor Sheridan movies stand out for their stories, performances and tense atmosphere. Sicario, Hell or High Water and Wind River are among his most recognised screenplays. Meanwhile, Those Who Wish Me Dead offers a more action-focused story.
The best choice depends on your taste. For example, crime fans may enjoy Sicario. In contrast, viewers who prefer modern Westerns may like Hell or High Water. If you enjoy mystery and suspense, Wind River is another strong option.
1. Sicario (2015)
Sicario is one of Taylor Sheridan’s most famous films. He wrote the screenplay, while Denis Villeneuve directed the movie. The story follows Kate Macer, an FBI agent who joins a secret operation against a powerful Mexican drug cartel.
At first, Kate believes the mission will help her fight organised crime. However, she soon discovers that the operation follows rules she does not fully understand. As the mission continues, the line between justice and revenge becomes harder to see.
The film stars Emily Blunt, Benicio del Toro and Josh Brolin. Their performances add tension to an already gripping story. In addition, the film uses its music, lighting and quiet moments to build suspense.
Sicario is a great choice for viewers who enjoy dark crime thrillers. It also shows Sheridan’s interest in difficult moral choices and the hidden costs of violence.
2. Hell or High Water (2016)
Hell or High Water is another major highlight in Sheridan’s film career. He wrote the screenplay, and David Mackenzie directed the film. The story follows two brothers who rob banks in Texas to protect their family’s land.
Chris Pine plays Toby Howard, while Ben Foster plays his brother, Tanner. Jeff Bridges also stars as a Texas Ranger who tries to catch them. As the investigation moves forward, the film reveals why the brothers turned to crime.
Unlike many action films, this story gives equal attention to its characters and setting. It explores poverty, debt and the struggle to survive. Meanwhile, its Western atmosphere adds depth to the story.
The film received strong critical praise and earned several major award nominations. Therefore, it is an excellent starting point for anyone exploring Taylor Sheridan movies.
3. Wind River (2017)
Wind River combines crime, mystery and drama. Sheridan wrote and directed the film, which takes place on a remote Native American reservation in Wyoming.
The story begins when a wildlife officer discovers the body of a young woman in the snow. He then helps an FBI agent investigate the death. As they search for answers, they face harsh weather, local tensions and painful truths.
Jeremy Renner plays the wildlife officer, Cory Lambert. Elizabeth Olsen stars as FBI agent Jane Banner. Their characters work together, although they approach the case in different ways.
The snowy setting adds to the film’s tense mood. However, the story also explores grief, isolation and the problems faced by Native American communities. These themes give the mystery greater emotional weight.
If you enjoy serious crime dramas with strong performances, Wind River deserves a place on your watchlist.
4. Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018)
Sicario: Day of the Soldado continues the story world of the first Sicario film. Taylor Sheridan returned as the screenwriter, while Stefano Sollima directed the sequel.
The story focuses on CIA operative Matt Graver and former operative Alejandro Gillick. This time, they become involved in a mission linked to drug cartels and human trafficking. However, the plan soon takes an unexpected turn.
Benicio del Toro and Josh Brolin return to their roles. Their performances help maintain the tense tone of the original film. In addition, the sequel features more action and larger conflicts.
Although it follows the first film, the sequel tells a different story. The original focuses heavily on Kate Macer’s experience. By contrast, Day of the Soldado places more attention on Graver and Alejandro.
Fans of the first movie may enjoy this follow-up, especially if they want more cartel-related action and moral conflict.
5. Those Who Wish Me Dead (2021)
Those Who Wish Me Dead shows another side of Sheridan’s work. He directed and co-wrote this action thriller, which stars Angelina Jolie.
The story follows Hannah Faber, a smokejumper who works to control wildfires. Her life changes when she encounters a young boy running from dangerous men. Soon, she must protect him while facing both armed pursuers and a wildfire.
The film combines survival, suspense and action. Meanwhile, its forest setting creates danger from several directions. The characters must deal with human threats as well as the growing fire.
Unlike Sheridan’s slower crime dramas, this film moves at a faster pace. Therefore, it may suit viewers who prefer action and survival stories.
6. Vile (2011)
Vile is a horror film from early in Sheridan’s career. He co-wrote and acted in the movie, which focuses on a group of strangers trapped in a frightening situation.
The characters must face painful challenges to escape. As a result, the story explores fear, desperation and the choices people make under pressure.
The film differs from Sheridan’s better-known crime dramas. However, it offers an example of his earlier work in a darker genre.
Viewers who enjoy intense horror may want to explore Vile. Still, those looking for Sheridan’s signature modern Western style should begin with Sicario, Hell or High Water or Wind River.
7. The Hitman’s Bodyguard (2017)
The Hitman’s Bodyguard is an action comedy starring Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson. Taylor Sheridan contributed to the screenplay, while Patrick Hughes directed the film.
The story follows a bodyguard who must protect a notorious hitman. The two men have very different personalities, which leads to arguments, dangerous encounters and comic moments.
Unlike Sheridan’s darker work, this film focuses on humour and fast-paced action. It also features car chases, gunfights and a race against time.
The movie offers a lighter option for viewers who want action without the heavy themes found in Sicario or Wind River. However, it does not represent Sheridan’s usual writing style as closely as his crime dramas do.
8. Without Remorse (2021)
Tom Clancy’s Without Remorse is an action thriller starring Michael B. Jordan. Taylor Sheridan co-wrote the screenplay with Will Staples, while Stefano Sollima directed the film.
The story follows John Kelly, a Navy SEAL who seeks answers after a personal tragedy. His search draws him into a wider conspiracy involving powerful people and secret operations.
The film features military action, suspense and themes of loyalty. In addition, its story explores the personal cost of revenge.
Although the movie has a different style from Sheridan’s modern Westerns, it may appeal to fans of military thrillers. It is another example of his work as a screenwriter on large-scale action films.
Taylor Sheridan’s Movies and Television Shows
Taylor Sheridan has worked across both film and television. His television projects have helped him reach an even wider audience. However, it is important to separate his movie credits from the shows he created or helped develop.
His best-known television work includes Yellowstone, 1883 and 1923. These shows explore family, land, power and life in the American West. They share themes with several of his films, especially their focus on difficult choices and personal conflict.
Still, these are television series rather than movies. If you are searching specifically for Taylor Sheridan movies, start with his film screenplays and directing credits.
Which Taylor Sheridan Movie Should You Watch First?
The best film to watch first depends on the kind of story you enjoy. Fortunately, Sheridan’s work covers several styles.
If you like crime thrillers, start with Sicario. Its tense story and complex characters make it one of his most memorable screenplays.
For a modern Western, choose Hell or High Water. It combines a crime story with a close look at money problems and family loyalty.
Meanwhile, Wind River is a strong choice for viewers who enjoy mysteries with emotional depth. Its remote setting also adds to the suspense.
If you prefer faster action, try Those Who Wish Me Dead or Without Remorse. Finally, horror fans may want to explore Vile.
Overall, Sicario, Hell or High Water and Wind River are the strongest starting points for most viewers.
Conclusion
Taylor Sheridan movies cover crime, action, horror and modern Western drama. However, his best-known work often focuses on justice, loyalty, violence and the struggles of ordinary people.
Sicario, Hell or High Water and Wind River remain essential choices for anyone exploring his film career. Each movie offers a different story, yet all three feature tense situations and complex characters.
Whether you prefer crime mysteries or Western dramas, Sheridan’s films offer plenty to explore. Start with the movie that best matches your taste, and then discover the rest of his work.
FAQs
What is Taylor Sheridan’s most famous movie?
Sicario is among Taylor Sheridan’s most famous films. He wrote the screenplay, and Denis Villeneuve directed it. Hell or High Water and Wind River are also widely recognised.
How many movies has Taylor Sheridan made?
The number depends on whether you count films he wrote, directed, acted in or produced. His credits cover several roles, so not every film represents the same type of involvement.
Did Taylor Sheridan write Sicario?
Yes. Taylor Sheridan wrote the screenplay for Sicario. Denis Villeneuve directed the 2015 crime thriller.
Did Taylor Sheridan direct Wind River?
Yes. Sheridan wrote and directed Wind River, which stars Jeremy Renner and Elizabeth Olsen.
Is Hell or High Water a Taylor Sheridan movie?
Yes. Sheridan wrote the screenplay for Hell or High Water. David Mackenzie directed the 2016 crime drama.
Are Yellowstone and 1883 Taylor Sheridan movies?
No. Yellowstone and 1883 are television series, not movies. Sheridan is closely associated with both shows.
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