Wichita (2014) User Reviews

An independent western that defies convention

[bacapirate · 8/10 · 14 April 2014]

First off, I am not a huge fan of the American cinema 'western'. It takes an extraordinary story to hold my interest. However, with several recent entries such as the HBO series 'Deadwood' I realized my perceptions were changing as new, bold filmmakers returned to themes etched in dirt, boots and blood.

'Wichita' really isn't so much about a growing town in the West as it is a collision point, a crossroads of circumstances that, once the cast is assembled, unfolds with a growing paranoia towards it's unexpected and violent conclusion.

A talented group of relative unknowns deepen the story with believable performances and filmed with such well composed shots that it's like gazing into a history book. The direction is sure-footed, calculated and intelligent.

So, I emerged not only amazed that a low budget feature could be of such high production quality and literary grit but also hopeful that this little gem gets a wide following.

I even might enjoy watching a few more westerns again.

New Western

[sinnambe · 8/10 · 13 April 2014]

So let me say that WICHITA is not a western for the casual genre fan raised on GUNSMOKE and BONANZA reruns. Nevertheless WICHITA delivers for film fans as well as Western Fans.

While many of the traditional elements of "the western" exist, WICHITA was obviously inspired more by the darker, somewhat cruel film-noirish category of film. The black hat-white hat, play along at home game doesn't exist. Each character has his own demons. The story unfolds violently and deliberately. Much like the work of Sam Peckinpah and, Budd Boetticher the film adopts an unpretentious style, taking a relaxed approach to the story unfolding and letting the actors and screenplay drive the film.

It's not perfect by any means, yet it show promise for the film maker and the cast. It's a film that inspires discussion afterwards and probably has more sociological elements explored than the average western. Enjoy and then be prepared to discuss.

Bang bang you're dead

[tonyprinc · 8/10 · 7 May 2014]

Surprising twists. The ending alone is worth the price of admission. Despite it being fictional I felt like the plot and cinematography sure seemed like the 1880's might have felt. I want to watch it again. This type of film-making is a refreshing acknowledgment that people with passion, a good script, and talent both in front and behind the camera can put together an enjoyable movie experience. In the grand scheme of what counts as movie making, this filmmakers use of resources and location choices show us indie film lovers that scenes are always around us waiting to be released into art. Go see the film, or get it on DVD and open your mind to a growing genre - movies that artists make on their own terms.

Wichita - the BEST mystery I've seen in a LONG time!

[ncorkins-carroll · 10/10 · 7 April 2014]

The story takes place in Wichita, the heart of the Midwest. As each character is introduced, you begin to wonder how they fit into the story. It is not until the very end that all is revealed. The actors do a superb job of walking you though the story. This movie was so much fun. At the end, the crowd of over 1,000, spontaneously erupted into applause. This is the kind of movie that goes by so fast you can't believe it's at the end. Nicholas Barton's writing and vision of the film was spot on. If you want a predictable movie, this one is NOT for you! No big special effects, just a great story line that carries you through the movie.

Wow

[johnkeenanonline · 10/10 · 5 April 2014]

After being in trouble not spending enough time with my girlfriend I took her to this movie and it totally got me out of the doghouse. She loved it, I loved it.

As the movie got going I found myself creeping onto the edge of my seat as it hooked us in. The characters where great, especially the older motherly actress in the film. She was REALLY impressive. We were thinking about it long after we left the theater.

The props and the sets were incredible. It was like getting in a time machine and it had subtle humor in a fairly serious movie at great times. There are many bad movies coming out these days and this is not one of them. Run, don't walk to watch this movie.

A Thriller in the 1880's Heartland

[nrsmith85 · 10/10 · 12 April 2014]

'Wichita' is an engaging film, full of character and intrigue. While I am not typically a fan of Westerns, this movie feels more like a dramatic piece set in the Old West, rather than a genre film. It is a gritty tale of life on the frontier, where the greatest threat to mortality is not one's health, but the actions of others. To say that I couldn't predict where the story would go is an understatement! There were several surprising moments where the whole theatre gasped, and the ending was met with resounding cheers and applause.

'Wichita' is visually striking, and beautifully shot. It certainly depicts the time period, leaving the audience to focus on the story itself rather than the practicality of the production. There is a great sense of movement, fluidity, and life throughout the movie. Various lines of dialogue set up payoffs later on, with no indication at the time that the audience is being given clues. Watching the movie is an engaging experience, rather than idle viewing.

I would definitely recommend this independent feature, whether or not you are a fan of typical Westerns. It's a dramatic piece, and unlike anything Hollywood is putting out there!

Pretty intense Western

[drewbaby1414 · 10/10 · 5 April 2014]

Went and saw this at the movies last night. Wasn't sure what to expect but I was pretty engrossed throughout the film. Not the typical cowboy movie but more of a gritty look at the old west. It's one of those movies that you have to pay attention to. There is a lot going on with this movie and it builds to a very surprising and climatic ending. Movie certainly deserves it's R rating as the violence in the movie can be brutal but so is this depiction of the old west. I gave it such a high rating because most westerns that are coming out these days just seem like you've seen them before. The look of this film and it's actors are really gritty. I wouldn't be surprised to see a couple actors make it big after this movie, especially the young girl who steals any scene she is in. Very impressive western.

Emotional Ride through the Old West in this Suspenseful Western

[rayeick7 · 10/10 · 5 April 2014]

"Wichita" has a special way of keeping you guessing until the very end. It's a marvelously well written story and plot; in which the actors, photographers, and editors beautifully bring to life. A glimpse into the unruly West takes your emotions on an exciting ride with a multitude of highs and lows. The movie also does an admirable job of artfully handling extremely sensitive subject-matter. You will find yourself on the edge of your seat as the story and depth begin to unfold.

This movie is a must see for Western and Suspense lovers alike. Make sure you hold on to your cowboy hat; it's a wild ride!

A Great Addition to the Western Genre

[kapaun1414 · 10/10 · 5 April 2014]

I am a huge fan of westerns and so I might be a bit biased in this review. One thing that fans of the genre can agree on is that we don't see a lot of great western's grace the cinema these days. Well I can tell you that I got my western fix with this film. Let me start out by saying this is not a movie for children. I think that a good comparison would be Shane mixed with Pulp Fiction. There is a great deal of violence in the film but the violence/action is not pointless. It serves the purpose of adding to the intensity and brutality of the old west. The movie has so much going on as it builds and builds upon itself to the climatic ending. It's a very intense film that is able to sneak in some humor but there are some scenes that absolutely come out of nowhere. In 2014 this is the most enjoyable western that has been made and great addition to the genre in general. If you're a western fan then it is a must see. My girlfriend also saw it with me and she found herself emotionally connected to the characters so it's by no means a guy film.

magnificent

[spectrahoax-868-77347 · 9/10 · 14 April 2014]

This was such an amazing project to work on and I have never been more impressed with a finished product. If you like complex characters and ongoing plot twist, this is definitely the film for you. There are few westerns done in the film industry and it is a great relief to see one done right. Never before have I seen a full let alone a western deal with issues that are all together too real, and often needed to be addressed. If this film is showing in your town do yourself a favor and invite yourself to a treat of excellent story telling and cinematic beauty. Nicholas Barton and his crew and actors brought a much needed realism to this noir telling of early America. As the story unfolds you find it hard to find a person to root for, as everyone has a quality that you want to stand by. Don't miss this.

Excellent Western

[moviefreakinstar · 10/10 · 13 April 2014]

Wichita is paced just like a western should be paced. Never letting on to the audience what might happen next. It has a clear beginning and middle, however the end will be a surprise and shock to everyone. From Nicholas Barton's great script and direction, to the cast and crew all the way around, you will enjoy yourself and leave the theater wanting more. Here's hoping there is a sequel in the works.

Especially standing out in the cast is Reylynn Caster who's talent at such a young age is a delight to watch. Justin France as Jesse has the face of a hero, but a dark side just under the surface. Beth Wise is superb as Ruth. Delno Ebie is perfect as the crime boss, Victor. Newcomer Joe Mackey as Charles Davies has very little to say but leaps out from the screen. As does the rest of this outstanding cast. If you're a fan of westerns, but with a twist....you'll love this one.

Drove 2 hrs to see this movie, would gladly do it again!

[smitten1054 · 9/10 · 16 April 2014]

Seriously, I cannot stop thinking about this movie. I went because a friend was in it and I wanted to be supportive - there were no expectations. The movie is low budget and so it's not weird to have some costuming and set issues. But the actors are pretty good, the gore FX for the most part are well done and the writing is great. It opens slowly, but then you realize it was just winding up to take off and then it blows up in your face.

The glitches don't stay with you, but the fresh characters do, and while the movie isn't perfect, the ending is. I can't wait to see it again knowing how it ends so I can watch more closely through the whole film. For the past week, I've fallen asleep contemplating the characters' motivations. I'm telling everyone within a reasonable distance of the screenings to go check it out.

I can't wait to see what writer/director Nicholas Barton does next. Give this man your money, he can do awesome things with it.

Shocking and Believable

[snapact · 9/10 · 25 April 2014]

The genre of this movie is in multiple form: thriller, western, noir, drama. It slowly pulls you in only to culminate into a rather shocking story, moving more quickly to each climax. It has just enough realness to the movie, you can almost feel the dirt under your nails, the grime on your clothes, the smell of the dust in the air. It brings you, the audience, along on the journey-a testament to quality storytelling. The background music brings the story through each scene without drawing attention to itself while retaining the 'history and culture' of the story. The content is a story relative to today as well as yesteryears. There is only one scene where I feel the acting could have been more intense for it's dilemma. Overall, the actors were believable, the directing solid, the camera draws you in, and the editing well done (I would have tightened it up just a bit in the first portion, but only a bit). To consider this movie as highly as I do, I must also admit it is phenomenal from a first time feature film director. Therefore, kudos to him, the crew, and the cast. I will be ordering this movie for my film library.

A must see if you have been to Old Cowtown Museum or if you work there.

[tojile · 9/10 · 30 April 2014]

I really enjoyed this movie. Parts of it were filmed at Old Cowtown Museum and since I spend time volunteering there I wanted to see the movie. The only problem I had with the movie was the costumes for the females in the movie. According to what we are suppose to wear when we work at Cowtown, the costumes in this movie were not accurate for the females. I cringed every time I saw the female costumes. The ending of the movie was very good. Spoiler alert it keeps you wondering.I would recommend this movie to anybody that lives in Wichita, has lived in Wichita, or is going to be moving to Wichita. I would especially recommend it for anybody that works at Old Cowtown Museum. It was fun to sit there and go I have been in that building and that building, we have meetings in that building. It has a very good storyline that I think any male or female would enjoy watching. It's not a western and it's not a love story. So if you were thinking that and didn't want to see it because of that, well don't think that.It is a movie that both male and female could enjoy.

Spoiler Alert

[dlsmall-994-546674 · 10/10 · 7 May 2014]

This movie is AMAZING and that is my spoiler alert. I'm not a huge fan of all these huge summer blockbuster movies that are coming out. Pretty much all CGI with a sorry script thrown together. This film on the other hand is great. I saw it in the theater after hearing it advertised on the radio. I thought to myself, hey I've been to Wichita and I heard it was made by a local film maker so I would just go see what it was about. To say the least it far exceeded my expectations. You would think a movie like this would have been filmed straight out of Hollywood but I found out that the movie was filmed in Wichita of all places. I've read the some of the other online reviews and they are spot on. Definitely don't take your kids but I would take your wife. My wife really enjoyed it and became emotionally attached to the two lead female characters. For me I like the BAD GUY gets what he deserves route. I also really liked how the movie flows at a fast pace and builds towards a pretty climatic ending. Trust me, you won't see it coming as much as I want to tell you.

Not Your Grandpa's Western

[curtandteresa · 10/10 · 7 May 2014]

WICHITA is not a traditional Western in any sense, but it is a testament to what independent film can be. It features a compelling story that both draws you in and unnerves you and characters with depth that you find yourself caring about. It also reminds us that there are extremely skilled actors outside of Hollywood with some outstanding performances.

This movie is not for the faint of heart and delivers some true "gut punches" at times, but for anyone interested in an exceptional tale of murder, revenge, and redemption, it truly delivers. This is a film to add to your personal collection as it can be watched repeatedly with nuances that are noticed only after the initial watching.

A Beautifully Shot Stark Drama

[drderin · 9/10 · 14 April 2014]

Wichita (the movie) is less a Western in the classic sense of the word, and more a noir piece set during the Western expansion. Wichita (the town) is for all intents and purposes, a quiet cowtown with a piece-keeping marshal, and a growing economy. All this changes with the arrival of two strangers, both harboring secret pasts. As the film slowly burns towards its shocking conclusion, relationships are forged, lives are changed, and destiny unfolds.

Shot on location in Kansas, the film beautifully captures the raw glory of the prairie, and the untamed harshness of the plains. Add to the cinematography, a complex story that keeps you guessing, and you have a winning combination that is pleasing to both the eye and the intellect. The talent is young and fresh, and the film leaves an impression, especially after the payoff. The result is a satisfying new take on a genre that has been well defined.

Modernly Authentic

[AdamWilliamson · 8/10 · 13 April 2014]

Many of people that have written reviews for this film have already talked about the plot, which as so many have already stated, is as intriguing as it is entertaining. So instead, I'd like to take moment to comment on some of the other aspects of this film.

All of the actors in this film do a fantastic job. The sisters, Samantha (Karina Wolfe) and Mary (Reylynn Caster) are definite standouts. Karina Wolfe is quite convincing in her role and really delivers an excellent performance. Her ability to play tough and tender at the same time is quite remarkable. For such a young actress, Reylynn Catser already has amazing range. The performances from these actresses alone are worth watching the movie for. But for me, it was Kenneth Mitchell as Deacon Miller that stole the show. His performance shows the maturity and the precision of a dedicated master of his craft. It was also a rare treat to see musician Uche as The Blacksmith and spotting director Nicholas Barton's cameo appearance was great moment.

The sound and soundtrack for this film was excellent and there were some nice visual moments throughout the film. For a period piece, the set design, wardrobe, and props are wonderful. Several of the scenes were actually filmed at the Historic Cowtown in Wichita, Kansas, lending an authenticity that has been preserved there for generations.

With fantastic locations and the amount of people involved in this production, "Wichita" has a great sense of scale for an indie film. Nicholas Barton and his team have put together a film that maintains the authenticity of the period while telling a story that is hip enough for modern audiences.

I usually screen movies privately but was lucky enough to be able attend "Wichita" at the premiere in Wichita, Kansas and witness the audience's engagement first hand. You know somebody is doing something right when a crowd of 1,000 people gasp, laugh, or stand up and applaud all at once.

We enjoyed this film & appreciated it was local origins.

[rnewber · 8/10 · 16 April 2014]

My husband & I saw this film in our hometown of Wellington, Ks. It was filmed & made by folks around our neck of the woods. We thought the story started off a bit confusing by introducing so many different characters without back stories but their stories unfolded well over the length of the film. In our opinions, it's a dark western with an original story line. Quite an impressive endeavor, for a few people with one camera. We were totally pleased with the end result & recommend this film to anyone, especially people who enjoy westerns set in the late 1800s. Impressive use of many local venues to make the audience feel like they'd stepped back in time.

Excellent production that came out of nowhere.

[Tj-weir52 · 9/10 · 13 April 2014]

You never know what to expect from a movie that has not been seen or reviewed. I was fortunate enough to have been invited to the opening screening at the Emporium, in none other than Wichita! What an evening it was. The venue was interesting and historical which added to the excitement building up to the showing. We arrived early in anticipation of the movie and sat with friends. I can speak for my friends and my son, we all agreed the movie was extremely professionally composed, edited and flowed in such a way that was suspenseful, full of surprises, and quite honestly had me bursting with good feelings and revenge happiness at the ending. The colors were exceptional, even though it was not shown in HD. The locations were authentic and the firearms used were for the period. Congratulations to Nick and his crews for their efforts. And a special note to Laura, you are really special to us. I gave it a 9 only because the scene in the barn made me uncomfortable and I would have been just fine leaving the details to my imagination.

great movie

[tiffbrittain · 10/10 · 5 April 2014]

This was an excellent movie, I fell in love with the main character (jesse) who was a good guy who was secretly a bad guy! Great surprise ending and a few humorous scenes throughout the movie. This movie was an excellent portrayal of 1880, the hardships faced in Wichita, Ks around this era and yet simpler times. It kept me wandering who these two men were and the end brought the whole thing in to perspective. Samantha's character was great, she did a really good job, playing the grown up daughter, caretaker of family with a rough and tough exterior, but still capable of love, despite what she has been through. Good job Nicholas Barton for making this come to life, I really enjoyed it!

You have to pay attention in this western!!!

[amauofa · 10/10 · 6 April 2014]

I went to the sold out premier with my boyfriend the other night. I wasn't sure what to expect with the film. First I'm not a huge fan of westerns as I find most of these films are flimsy with little depth. I'm not into the shoot em up John Wayne stuff. Well I can tell you right now that Wichita is not this sort of movie. It has some very deep and emotional themes that go way beyond other movies in the genre. That is not to say that it's not a guy movie as well. The violence is definitely there so and it's certainly not a kids movie. They have stabbings, shootings,and some other brutal scenes that I don't want to give away. I will definitely see it again when it comes to video. Lots going on in this film.

The Film was absolutely striking!

[losdaworkoholik · 10/10 · 13 April 2014]

I had the astonishing, hair-raising moments that blockbusters have given me when watching! At every corner there was some sort of eyebrow raising mystery! I could not contain some emotions as the scenes depicted real life stuff. Extraordinary cinematography! Some scenes I could not believe were actually shot in my hometown!!!! Astonishing sound!!! The soundtrack fit so well with the film at every moment! Though sometimes the tough proposition of murder throughout many scenes, the plot was thick with reasoning behind those acts. If ever there was another one of these to come out I would not hesitate to bring a full crowd to enjoy it with me!

A must watch for those who love a conundrum of mind twist and turns!

Ending was spot on!!!!

gripping story, beautiful cinematography

[rich_hoff03 · 10/10 · 23 April 2014]

I was lucky enough to be involved with this project and from reading the script alone was excited to see a truly original story and plan out scenes. Well constructed and beautifully captured, you are placed in a time and place and reality that to many westerns fail to grasp. Wichita is not your typical western. There's no shootouts at high noon,no spurs and cowpokes. Its a glimpse into a handful of lives at a given time when the "Wild West" was hostile but home. Filmed with and utilizing many local talents, Wichita should be proud of the film sharing it's namesake. I certainly am.

Richard Hoffman Makeup effects artist for Wichita

A surprising , well-crafted noir western.

[uncledave-982-507819 · 9/10 · 23 April 2014]

I attended the premier of the film more as a gesture of support for several of the actors I knew in the film rather than with any expectation of a truly enjoyable film experience. But that is exactly what I got! The subtle, sophisticated script demanded a lot from the viewer but paid off handsomely as the film progressed; full of ambiguity and secrets, the characters constantly surprised the audience. Initially some of the most head-scratching scenes were, later in the film, cleverly illuminated and added immensely to the arc of the story.

The cinematography was for the most part intimate and carefully composed. The costuming and sets were detailed and (as far as I know) authentic. The music seemed at times to be intrusive, though.

But it was the actors' performances that made the film more than just an exercise/experiment in genre-mixing. I was particularly impressed with my young friends Kenneth Mitchell and Justin France, as well as the not-so-young Uche. Beth wise was outstanding as the Jesse's surrogate mother figure.

The film is an exceptional first offering from writer/director Nicholas Barton and provides an enjoyable and challenging viewing. See when you can.