Critically Acclaimed Western 'Never Grow Old' Broadcasts on Film4 This Evening
A gritty and atmospheric Western film that has been celebrated as a hidden cinematic gem is scheduled for broadcast on Film4 this Sunday evening. Never Grow Old, released in 2019, features compelling performances from John Cusack and Emile Hirsch and has garnered significant praise from audiences for its intense character-driven narrative.
A Slow-Burn Frontier Drama with High Stakes
Directed by Ivan Kavanagh, the film presents a stark portrayal of life on the American frontier. The plot centres on Patrick Tate, portrayed by Emile Hirsch, an Irish undertaker residing in a lawless town that falls under the corrupting influence of outlaw Dutch Albert, played by John Cusack. As violence escalates and the death toll rises, Tate profits from the ensuing chaos by burying the dead but soon confronts a profound moral dilemma. His family's safety becomes threatened, forcing him to navigate a brutal world devoid of law or religion and choose between ill-gotten gains and sheer survival.
Audience Acclaim and Rotten Tomatoes Score
The film holds an impressive 86 per cent score on the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, where it has been championed by fans as an overlooked masterpiece. Viewer testimonials highlight its deliberate pacing and powerful atmosphere.
One detailed review notes: "Slow burn, with plenty of understated tension. Not an action western, more of an underplayed character drama with some brutally honest killing. Very good movie!"
Another admirer commented on the performances: "Whoa, acting blew me away. And I'm not usually one who notices THAT particular part of a film. Yeah, the story might be a trope in some ways, but the performances and mood are worthwhile."
Praise for Performances and Atmospheric Storytelling
Further audience feedback consistently applauds the film's authentic feel and compelling execution. A third viewer stated: "Perfect feel to this 1850s' period movie. I enjoyed it very much! A+"
Others have described the production as "dark, brooding and bleak", using these terms as compliments, and highlighted the crackling tension in scenes between Cusack and Hirsch. The cinematography and attention to period detail, from costumes to sets, have also received commendation for enhancing the immersive experience, despite minor historical observations about accuracy.
One particularly enthusiastic review summarised: "Damn good piece of filmmaking... The tension and the storytelling are great. Overall, it's a great movie to watch."
Broadcast Details for Film4 Viewers
For those seeking a thought-provoking and intense evening of television, Never Grow Old airs on Film4 tonight, Sunday, January 25, at 11.40pm. This broadcast offers a prime opportunity to discover this critically praised slow-burn Western that continues to captivate viewers with its stark narrative and powerful performances.
