Ned Dennehy stars with James Hetfield and Peter Dinklage in new western, The Thicket

Ned Dennehy stars with James Hetfield and Peter Dinklage in new western, The Thicket

As a huge fan of both Ned Dennehy and the western genre, I’m beyond excited about his new role in “The Thicket.” Dennehy’s diverse acting background and ability to bring depth to any character make him an ideal addition to this unique and dark western thriller.


Irish actor Ned Dennehy became a part of the “Walking Dead” world as RJ Gaines, an American stranded in France prior to the zombie outbreak, who crossed paths with Daryl Dixon (Norman Reedus) in season 1 of “The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon.” Renowned for numerous acting roles, Dennehy is set to appear next in the western film, “The Thicket.”

The movie is a gripping western thriller, set in a dark backdrop, derived from Joe R. Lansdale’s novel. Elliott Lester, famous for “Blitz,” helms its direction, and Cristopher Kelley penned the screenplay. Development of this project has been ongoing for years, but its progress was substantially influenced by the 2020 pandemic. “The Thicket” offers a fresh perspective on the western genre with its innovative approach. Lester recently spoke in detail about the film to Collider.

By introducing never-before-seen characters like Cut Throat Bill and Reginald Jones, the film offers a distinct narrative and perspective, diverging from traditional western tropes. Our goal was to transform the familiar elements of the genre and present them in an entirely new light, immersing the audience in a darker, more atmospheric world that captures the harshness of the environment. This innovative approach allows viewers to experience the western genre in a way they never have before, blending the nostalgia of classic westerns with a bold, modern twist.

Elliott Lester – director

At the beginning of the new millennium, Emmy-winning actor Peter Dinklage, linked to the project since 2014, brings Reginald Jones to life on screen. Jones is a skilled bounty hunter on a mission to locate a kidnapped woman, taken by a dangerous criminal. Their journey leads them to Big Thicket, an infamous and chaotic region notorious for its lawlessness and violence.

In this retelling, the narrative centers around Jack, played by Levon Hawke, as he embarks on a mission to locate his kidnapped sister Lula, portrayed by Esme Creed-Miles. The nefarious gang responsible is headed by Juliette Lewis’ character, Cut Throat Bill. To aid him in his search, Jack recruits Jones and his associates: Gbenga Akinnagbe’s grave-digging descendant of a former slave, and the streetwise prostitute Leslie Grace.

As a gamer, I’d say: I see Dennehy, Macon Blair, Andrew Schulz, Arliss Howard, and David Midthunder joining the cast in this film. And let me tell you, it’s gonna be a treat to watch James Hetfield on the screen! He’s made appearances or lent his voice in shows like “Billions,” “The Simpsons,” and “Metalocalypse.” Quite an impressive resume for the Metallica frontman!

The online publication Collider announces that the premiere of “The Thickety” is scheduled for September 6 on streaming platform Tubi. Take a peek at the preview images provided below.

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2024-07-15 23:39