10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to War Pony (2023)

Description: Like 'War Pony', 'Winter's Bone' is a gritty drama about survival in rural America, focusing on a young protagonist navigating a harsh, unforgiving world. Both films highlight the strength and resilience of their female leads and the tight-knit, often oppressive communities they inhabit. The stark, atmospheric cinematography in 'Winter's Bone' mirrors the visual style of 'War Pony'.

Fact: Jennifer Lawrence received her first Oscar nomination for her role in the film. The movie is based on the novel of the same name by Daniel Woodrell. The film's budget was only $2 million, but it grossed over $16 million worldwide.

Description: 'The Revenant' shares with 'War Pony' a focus on survival in unforgiving environments and the resilience of indigenous people. Both films feature breathtaking natural landscapes and a visceral, immersive storytelling style. The themes of revenge and redemption in 'The Revenant' parallel the personal struggles of the characters in 'War Pony'.

Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio won his first Oscar for his performance in the film. The movie was shot using only natural light, adding to its realism. The bear attack scene took months to plan and execute.

Description: Both 'Beasts of the Southern Wild' and 'War Pony' feature young protagonists facing extraordinary challenges in marginalized communities. The films share a magical realism quality, blending harsh realities with poetic, almost mythical storytelling. The strong sense of place and community in both films adds depth to their narratives.

Fact: Quvenzhané Wallis was only six years old when she was cast as the lead. The film was shot in Louisiana, with many non-professional actors. It won the Caméra d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

Description: Like 'War Pony', 'Hell or High Water' examines economic desperation and the lengths people will go to escape poverty. Both films are set in rural America and feature protagonists struggling against systemic injustices. The neo-Western tone and gritty realism of 'Hell or High Water' resonate with the raw, unfiltered storytelling of 'War Pony'.

Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Chris Pine and Ben Foster play brothers who rob banks to save their family ranch. The film is part of Taylor Sheridan's 'Frontier Trilogy', alongside 'Sicario' and 'Wind River'.

Description: 'American Honey' and 'War Pony' both follow young protagonists on journeys of self-discovery amidst economic hardship. The films share a documentary-like realism and a focus on the beauty and brutality of life on the margins. The ensemble casts and episodic structures of both films add to their authenticity.

Fact: The film won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival. Many of the actors were non-professionals discovered by the director, Andrea Arnold. The movie was shot in a road-trip style, with the cast traveling across the U.S.

Description: 'Leave No Trace' and 'War Pony' both explore themes of displacement and the struggle to find belonging. The films feature protagonists living on the fringes of society, grappling with personal and systemic challenges. The quiet, understated storytelling in 'Leave No Trace' mirrors the nuanced approach of 'War Pony'.

Fact: The film is based on the novel 'My Abandonment' by Peter Rock. It was shot in the forests of Oregon. The director, Debra Granik, also directed 'Winter's Bone'.

Description: Both 'Yellowstone' and 'War Pony' explore the complexities of land ownership and the clash between tradition and modernity. The series, like the film, features strong indigenous characters and delves into the socio-political issues affecting Native American communities. The sweeping landscapes and intense family dynamics in 'Yellowstone' echo the visual and thematic elements of 'War Pony'.

Fact: Kevin Costner stars as the patriarch of the Dutton family, who own the largest ranch in the U.S. The show has spawned several spin-offs, including '1883' and '1923'. The series is known for its dramatic plot twists and high-stakes conflicts.

Description: Similar to 'War Pony' in its exploration of marginalized communities, 'Wind River' delves into the harsh realities of life on a Native American reservation. Both films tackle themes of survival, systemic neglect, and the resilience of indigenous people. The stark, snowy landscapes in 'Wind River' mirror the desolate beauty of 'War Pony's' setting, enhancing the emotional weight of the narratives.

Fact: The film is based on real-life issues faced by Native American women, particularly the high rates of missing and murdered indigenous women. Jeremy Renner learned to track animals for his role as a wildlife tracker. The film's director, Taylor Sheridan, also wrote 'Hell or High Water' and 'Sicario'.

Description: Like 'War Pony', 'The Florida Project' offers a poignant look at childhood and poverty in America. Both films use vibrant visuals to contrast the harsh realities of their characters' lives. The performances by young actors in both films are remarkably natural and heartfelt.

Fact: The film is set in the shadow of Disney World, highlighting economic disparity. Willem Dafoe received an Oscar nomination for his supporting role. Director Sean Baker is known for his use of non-professional actors.

Description: Both 'The Miseducation of Cameron Post' and 'War Pony' deal with young people navigating oppressive systems. While 'Cameron Post' focuses on LGBTQ+ conversion therapy, both films highlight the resilience of their protagonists in the face of societal pressures. The coming-of-age themes in both films are handled with sensitivity and depth.

Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. It is based on the novel by Emily M. Danforth. Chloë Grace Moretz stars as the titular character.