REBUILDING is one of those movies that I easily could’ve missed – it had a limited release and relatively less exposure than the films it was competing with during its theatrical window. Luckily, it had been on my radar; it was part of the 2025 Seattle International Film Festival. Unfortunately, I didn’t catch it there, but I had been looking out for a wider release. I’m so glad I did end up watching it; REBUILDING was one of my favorite films of the year.
The film stars Josh O’Connor (CHALLENGERS, LA CHIMERA) as a Coloradan cowboy who has recently lost his farm to a wildfire. REBUILDING fits into one of my favorite niche-movie genres: emotional, wholesome Westerns, joining the likes of FIRST COW and NATIONAL ANTHEM. The movie is ultimately about family, both blood and found, the power of community, and acceptance. Although it’s melancholic and mellow at times, it never drags, thanks to director and writer Max Walker-Silverman’s ability to keep the story moving. And, most importantly, any storylines or moments that could be perceived as sappy or saccharine come off as genuine, heartfelt, and natural.
And to top it all off, the music for this movie is incredible; Jake Xerxes Fussell and James Elkington provide a fittingly folky score, one of my favorites being MOUNTAIN TIME. Plus, the album art is perfect; a close-up painting of one of the Western button shirts O’Connor’s character wears.
I can’t wait to rewatch this film when it comes to streaming. For now, REBUILDING is available to rent or buy wherever you get your movies.
