If you were captivated by the haunting beauty and moral complexity of The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada (2005), this list is for you. We’ve curated 10 films and shows that share its themes of justice, redemption, and the stark landscapes of the American Southwest. Whether you loved its poetic storytelling or its raw emotional depth, these picks will resonate with fans of Tommy Lee Jones’ modern Western masterpiece.

Lone Star (1996)
Description: A multi-layered mystery set in a small Texas town, exploring themes of race, history, and family secrets. The film's intricate storytelling and sense of place create a similar depth and complexity.
Fact: The film was shot on a modest budget and features a non-linear narrative. It was critically acclaimed for its screenplay and ensemble cast.


A History of Violence (2005)
Description: A psychological thriller that explores the duality of human nature and the consequences of violence. The film's raw, unflinching portrayal of its protagonist's inner conflict aligns with the reference's themes.
Fact: The film was adapted from a graphic novel of the same name. It was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for William Hurt.


The Proposition (2005)
Description: A brutal and lyrical Western set in the Australian outback, dealing with themes of family, revenge, and redemption. The film's stark visuals and moral ambiguity create a similar atmosphere.
Fact: The screenplay was written by musician Nick Cave. The film's depiction of the Australian frontier is based on historical accounts of violence and lawlessness.


The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)
Description: A poetic and melancholic Western that examines fame, betrayal, and the myth of the American outlaw. The film's slow pacing and introspective tone create a similar meditative quality.
Fact: The film's cinematography was heavily inspired by the paintings of Andrew Wyeth. It features an original score by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis.


No Country for Old Men (2007)
Description: A gripping neo-Western crime thriller that explores themes of fate, morality, and the harsh realities of the American Southwest. The film's stark cinematography and tense, slow-burning narrative create a similar sense of desolation and inevitability.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and is based on Cormac McCarthy's novel of the same name. The iconic coin toss scene was improvised by Javier Bardem.


Cold in July (2014)
Description: A neo-noir thriller that explores themes of vengeance, family, and moral ambiguity. The film's tense, unpredictable narrative and Southern Gothic vibe align with the reference's style.
Fact: The film is based on a novel by Joe R. Lansdale. Its soundtrack features synth-heavy music inspired by 1980s crime films.


The Rover (2014)
Description: A post-apocalyptic drama set in the Australian desert, focusing on themes of survival and human connection. The film's bleak setting and minimalist storytelling echo the reference's tone.
Fact: The film was shot in the harsh conditions of the Australian outback, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It features a sparse, atmospheric score by Antony Partos.


Hell or High Water (2016)
Description: A modern Western that delves into themes of justice, brotherhood, and economic desperation. The film's portrayal of rural Texas and its morally complex characters mirrors the gritty, introspective tone of the reference.
Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The script was inspired by real-life bank robberies in Texas during the 2008 financial crisis.


Sicario (2015)
Description: A tense, morally ambiguous thriller set against the backdrop of the drug war along the U.S.-Mexico border. The film's bleak atmosphere and exploration of violence and corruption align closely with the reference's themes.
Fact: The word 'Sicario' means 'hitman' in Spanish. The film's haunting score was composed by Jóhann Jóhannsson, who also worked on 'The Theory of Everything.'


Wind River (2017)
Description: A crime drama set in the snowy wilderness of Wyoming, focusing on themes of loss, justice, and the harshness of nature. The film's somber tone and exploration of human resilience resonate with the reference.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life cases of missing Native American women. It marks the directorial debut of Taylor Sheridan, who also wrote 'Sicario' and 'Hell or High Water.'
