"Let Him Go" (2020) – A Gripping Tale of Love, Loss, and Justice
Let Him Go is a 2020 neo-Western thriller directed by Thomas Bezucha, based on the novel by Larry Watson. Starring Academy Award winners Kevin Costner and Diane Lane, the film delivers a haunting and emotionally intense story about grief, family, and the lengths people will go to protect those they love.
Set in the early 1960s in rural America, the film follows retired sheriff George Blackledge and his wife Margaret, who are mourning the loss of their adult son, James. After James dies in a tragic accident, his widow, Lorna, remarries a man named Donnie Weboy. When Margaret witnesses Donnie abusing both Lorna and her young grandson, Jimmy, she becomes deeply concerned. Soon after, the new family disappears without a trace, prompting Margaret and George to set out on a journey to find them and bring their grandson back.
Their search leads them to the Weboy family, a powerful and dangerous clan led by the fiercely intimidating matriarch, Blanche Weboy, played chillingly by Lesley Manville. It becomes clear that Lorna and Jimmy are trapped in an abusive and controlling environment. Despite repeated warnings, George and Margaret refuse to back down, risking everything in a desperate attempt to rescue their grandson and do what they believe is right.
Let Him Go is a powerful blend of drama, suspense, and action, driven by its strong performances and emotional core. Kevin Costner gives a quiet, commanding performance as a man haunted by the past but determined to do the right thing. Diane Lane shines as a fierce and loving grandmother who refuses to let fear stop her. The chemistry between the two leads creates a believable and heartfelt portrayal of a long-married couple facing unimaginable danger.
One of the film’s strengths is its tone—slow-burning, atmospheric, and tense. The cinematography captures the vast, lonely landscapes of the American Midwest, reflecting the characters’ isolation and inner turmoil. The soundtrack and minimal use of music heighten the suspense, keeping viewers on edge throughout the story.
At its heart, Let Him Go is not just about violence or revenge—it is a deeply emotional story about family, justice, and sacrifice. It explores how far people are willing to go to protect loved ones and whether the price of doing what's right is ever too high.
The film received praise for its acting, emotional depth, and suspenseful storytelling. While it’s grounded in realism, Let Him Go also carries elements of the classic Western—moral conflict, rugged landscapes, and a quiet hero standing against evil.
For those who appreciate intense, character-driven dramas with emotional stakes and a strong moral backbone, Let Him Go is a film worth watching. It’s a moving story that reminds us that sometimes, love means fighting for those who can’t fight for themselves.
