Clint Eastwood’s cinematic hallmark is often linked to gripping narratives about stoic wanderers and heroes, yet these tales usually remain rooted in reality. While characters like the enigmatic Man With No Name and the relentless Dirty Harry Callahan embody mystery and determination, Eastwood’s reputation doesn’t typically involve the supernatural. That is, apart from a unique film where he is seemingly portrayed as a ghost seeking vengeance.
This distinctive film is “High Plains Drifter,” one of Eastwood’s most esteemed Westerns, now streaming on Netflix. Not only did Eastwood direct this film, but he also stars as the enigmatic Stranger who arrives in the town of Lago, gradually imposing his will. The movie is a stark and unsettling tale featuring some of the most haunting visuals in Eastwood’s career, including the transformation of Lago into a blood-red vision of hell under the Stranger’s command.
Despite its often grim themes, “High Plains Drifter” has received critical acclaim, boasting a 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It stands as a must-watch for enthusiasts of Eastwood’s Westerns. Its presence on Netflix is a boon for those eager to dive into this daring and thought-provoking film.
As the narrative of “High Plains Drifter” unfolds, it becomes clear that most characters are deeply flawed, driven by greed and selfishness. The plot centers around the mysterious demise of Marshal Jim Duncan, played by Eastwood’s long-time stunt double Buddy Van Horn, at the hands of three outlaws, while the townsfolk passively observed.
To preserve the intrigue for those yet to watch, we’ll refrain from detailing the events that lead the Stranger to both unsettle and seemingly shield the town’s residents from returning villains. The tale of revenge is best savored without spoilers. However, viewers should be aware that certain scenes might be distressing, including an early depiction of sexual assault that is particularly difficult to watch.
High Plains Drifter adds a dose of supernatural to Eastwood’s gunslinger era
Universal Pictures
The only other Eastwood film that rivals “High Plains Drifter” in its supernatural ambiguity is 1985’s “Pale Rider.” In this movie, Eastwood’s character, Preacher, is subtly depicted as one of the Horsemen of the Apocalypse—Death—and is hinted to have otherworldly origins. Like “High Plains Drifter,” “Pale Rider” is also highly regarded, making it a fitting companion piece for a Western double feature.
In case you haven’t seen the movie, we won’t go into the specifics of just how the events transpire and why the Stranger has descended upon the town to both unnerve its residents and seemingly protect them from the returning outlaws. After all, this stylized story or retribution is worth experiencing without too much context. Just be aware that there are some scenes that viewers may find triggering (there’s a sexual assault early in the film that’s particularly hard to watch).
The only Eastwood movie that comes close to “High Plains Drifter” in terms of a possible supernatural element is 1985’s “Pale Rider,” in which his character, Preacher, is coded as a Horseman of the Apocalypse — Death, of course — and implied to be otherworldly. It’s also critically acclaimed and makes for a great Western double feature with “High Plains Drifter.”
If you or anyone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available. Visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or contact RAINN’s National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
