There's something about a Western that never gets old. Whether it's the sweeping landscapes, the moral complexity, or just the sight of a cowboy hat against a setting sun, the genre keeps pulling us back. And now, Josh Holloway is ready to ride again. The former Lost star, who made a memorable turn on Yellowstone, is trading modern-day drama for a classic frontier tale in Flint, a new film based on Louis L'Amour's beloved novel. We've got the exclusive first trailer, and it's a doozy.
Set to premiere at the Regal Green Hills in Nashville on September 25 as part of the Nashville Film Festival, Flint promises to be a throwback to the kind of Westerns that defined Hollywood's golden age—but with a 21st-century edge. The trailer gives us a taste of the action, with Holloway's character, Jim Flint, navigating a range war, a mysterious past, and a whole lot of dust and gunfire. It's a far cry from the modern ranches of Yellowstone, but it's got that same spirit of rugged individualism.
Written and directed by Ryan Whitaker (Surprised by Oxford), Flint is the first big-screen adaptation of a L'Amour novel in decades. The story follows James Kettleman, a man who returns to the Montana frontier he once fled, now going by the name of the notorious killer who raised him. Caught in the middle of a range war involving a female rancher, he's forced to confront his own legacy. It's a classic setup, but with a modern sensibility that should appeal to both longtime fans of the book and newcomers alike.
Holloway, who also serves as a producer, shared his excitement about the project in an exclusive statement: "As a diehard Louis L’Amour fan, it was a true honor to step into the shoes of this iconic character. Partnering with Ryan to bring this story to life on the big screen was the culmination of a nearly 20-year journey for me. I believe we made something special, and I could not be more excited to share this film with the Nashville Film Festival audience in September."
The cast is stacked with familiar faces, including Sarah Gadon (11.22.63), Dianna Agron (Glee), Max Martini (13 Hours), Mike Vogel (Childhood's End), and Forrie J. Smith, who'll be right at home after his stint on Yellowstone. Charles Esten (Nashville), Bailey Chase (Longmire), and Nick Searcy (Justified) round out the ensemble. With that kind of talent, Flint is shaping up to be a must-watch for Western enthusiasts.
For those who've been following the resurgence of the genre, Flint feels like a natural next step. It's not just a retread of old tropes; it's a fresh take that honors the source material while adding new layers. And if you're a fan of neo-Western romances or supernatural noir Westerns, this one should be on your radar.
The trailer also showcases the stunning Montana landscapes, which are practically a character in themselves. It's the kind of scenery that makes you want to saddle up and head for the hills—or at least binge a few more Westerns. If you're in the mood for something with a bit more grit, you might also check out Mark Wahlberg's neo-Western action thriller or dive into the quote that defines Taylor Sheridan's epic.
Whitaker and Holloway will be at the Nashville Film Festival for the premiere, joined by producer Ken Carpenter, Beau L'Amour (the author's son), executive producer Mark Pentecost, and more cast members to be announced. It's a homecoming of sorts for the film, which has been in the works for years. And with the festival buzz already building, Flint could be the sleeper hit of the season.
So, whether you're a diehard L'Amour fan or just looking for your next Western fix, keep an eye on Flint. The trailer is out now, and the full film hits Nashville next month. Giddy up.
