The Kid

The Kid (2019): A Thoughtful Western Rooted in Morality and Redemption

The Kid (2019) is a Western drama film directed by actor-turned-filmmaker Vincent D'Onofrio. Starring Ethan Hawke, Dane DeHaan, and newcomer Jake Schur, the film blends historical fiction with coming-of-age storytelling to explore themes of violence, justice, and the difficult choices that define a person’s character. While it pays homage to the gritty traditions of classic Westerns, The Kid also aims for emotional depth by focusing on the perspective of a child caught between legends of the Old West.

Set in the American frontier during the late 1800s, the story follows Rio (Jake Schur), a young boy on the run with his sister after killing their abusive father. The siblings are trying to escape the wrath of their equally dangerous uncle, Grant Cutler (played menacingly by Chris Pratt in a rare villainous role). During their journey, Rio and his sister cross paths with none other than Billy the Kid (Dane DeHaan), the infamous outlaw, and Sheriff Pat Garrett (Ethan Hawke), the man determined to capture him.

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The central conflict of the film lies not only between Garrett and Billy — two historical figures locked in a well-known rivalry — but also within Rio himself. He is torn between two very different role models: the charismatic, reckless Billy the Kid and the steady, morally upright Garrett. Through Rio’s eyes, the film examines what it means to be a man, how violence shapes destiny, and whether a person can choose their path, even in a world ruled by chaos and cruelty.

Dane DeHaan delivers a charismatic and volatile performance as Billy the Kid, portraying him as both a folk hero and a flawed human being. He’s unpredictable yet strangely likable, embodying the romanticized vision of the outlaw while also showing the danger of idolizing such figures. In contrast, Ethan Hawke gives a grounded and quietly powerful performance as Pat Garrett — a lawman who understands the cost of justice and carries the weight of his responsibilities with solemn dignity. Jake Schur, though a newcomer, handles the emotional core of the film with surprising maturity, making Rio’s journey compelling and believable.

The Kid (2019) - IMDb

Visually, The Kid embraces the dusty, rugged landscapes of the Western genre. The cinematography captures wide-open plains and sun-scorched towns, creating an authentic sense of place. D’Onofrio’s direction is measured and character-focused, choosing introspective moments over gratuitous action. When violence does occur, it feels raw and consequential, never glamorized.

The Kid doesn’t try to reinvent the Western, but it does offer a fresh narrative approach by telling the story through a young, impressionable protagonist. While some critics felt the film lacked urgency or leaned too heavily on genre tropes, others praised its thoughtfulness and emotional core. Ultimately, it’s a tale about the choices we make, the people we look up to, and how even in lawless times, conscience can be a guiding light.

In a genre often dominated by hardened gunslingers and sweeping revenge plots, The Kid stands out for its emphasis on moral complexity and personal growth. It may not be a blockbuster, but it’s a thoughtful Western worth watching.