Tubi’s original Western, ‘The Thicket,’ starring Peter Dinklage, stands out with its gritty realism, strong performances, and a fresh perspective on the genre. It’s a surprising find for both Western fans and those familiar with Dinklage’s work.

Tubi Ventures into Original Content

Tubi, known for its ad-supported streaming and extensive film library, has begun producing original content. While ‘Tubi Originals’ may not always garner significant attention due to budget constraints and lesser-known titles, they often deliver unexpected quality.

A Revisionist Western Starring Peter Dinklage

‘The Thicket,’ released in 2024, is based on a novel by Joe R. Landsdale. The story centers on bounty hunter Reginald Jones (Peter Dinklage) and his unlikely group of allies as they pursue the dangerous Cut-Throat Bill (Juliette Lewis), who has kidnapped Lula Parker (Esmé Creed-Miles).

A Passion Project for Dinklage

This film was a long-held passion project for Dinklage, allowing him to showcase his dramatic range and build upon his acclaimed role in ‘Game of Thrones.’ His portrayal of Jones shares a psychological depth with Tyrion Lannister, but with a darker, more haunting quality.

Gritty Realism and a Strong Supporting Cast

Director Elliott Lester, alongside a talented supporting cast including Juliette Lewis, Gbenga Akinnagbe, and James Hetfield of Metallica, crafted a visually striking and morally complex narrative. The film deliberately avoids the romanticized elements often found in traditional Westerns.

A Gender-Swapped Villain

A notable change from the source material is the gender-swapping of the villain, Cut-Throat Bill, brilliantly portrayed by Juliette Lewis. This casting decision adds a layer of complexity, challenging typical Western archetypes without overt commentary.

Challenging Western Conventions

‘The Thicket’ initially appears to be a classic Western, but quickly subverts expectations, exploring revisionist themes about American myths and the concept of justice. The film’s brutal and unforgiving world is populated by unscrupulous characters.

While not reaching the depth of Clint Eastwood’s work, ‘The Thicket’ effectively uses its straightforward structure to challenge audience preconceptions. Tubi continues to surprise viewers with hidden gems like this, demonstrating that quality content can be found outside of mainstream platforms.