Taylor Kitsch's career trajectory is a Hollywood rollercoaster. After a meteoric rise with three major films in 2012, the actor faced a tough road when those projects underperformed. Now, as he enjoys a resurgence with hits like American Primeval and The Terminal List: Dark Wolf, fans have a limited window to revisit one of his early, divisive roles. Savages, directed by Oliver Stone, is set to leave Netflix in October 2026.
A Star's Triple Threat That Backfired
In 2012, Kitsch was positioned as Hollywood's next big thing, starring in three high-profile releases: the sci-fi epics John Carter and Battleship, and the crime thriller Savages. While the former two were massive, expensive productions that bombed at the box office, Savages was a mid-budget affair with a stellar ensemble cast. Directed by the legendary Oliver Stone, the film featured Blake Lively, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, John Travolta, Salma Hayek, Benicio del Toro, and Demián Bichir.
The Plot and Reception
Savages follows two small-time marijuana growers who find themselves in a deadly conflict with a Mexican cartel. Despite its star power and Stone's direction, the film received mixed reviews and underperformed commercially. It currently holds a 50% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics noting it's "undeniably messy" but showcasing Stone's return to "dark, fearlessly lurid form." The movie grossed $86 million worldwide against a $45 million budget, a modest return that didn't cement its legacy.
Why 'Savages' Faded While 'Sicario' Thrived
Interestingly, Savages shares a thematic and financial footprint with another crime thriller: Sicario. Released three years later, Sicario grossed nearly the same amount globally but cost $10 million less. It became a home-video hit, spawning a sequel, while Savages slipped into obscurity. Now, as Netflix prepares to remove it, viewers have a final chance to see Kitsch in this early role.
Kitsch's Comeback and Future Projects
Kitsch has since rebuilt his career, landing lead roles in major streaming projects. His recent work includes the Netflix Western American Primeval and the Prime Video action series The Terminal List: Dark Wolf. He's also set to headline his first movie in seven years, the crime thriller Eleven Days, directed by Peter Landesman. For fans of his work, Savages offers a glimpse of his early potential.
More Netflix Departures to Note
October is shaping up to be a busy month for Netflix removals. Alongside Savages, other notable titles leaving include Spike Lee and Denzel Washington's Inside Man, Ralph Fiennes' underrated spy thriller Official Secrets, and Bruce Willis and Gary Oldman's The Fifth Element. If you're a fan of crime dramas or Kitsch's filmography, make sure to catch Savages before it's gone.
Final Thoughts
While Savages may not have achieved the cult status of some of its contemporaries, it remains a fascinating piece of early-2010s cinema. With Stone's signature style and a powerhouse cast, it's worth a watch for any film enthusiast. Don't miss your chance to stream it on Netflix before October 1, 2026.
