The Last Son (2021): A Gritty Western Tale of Blood, Betrayal, and a Cursed Legacy

The Last Son (2021) is a brooding, action-packed Western that delves into the dark heart of family ties, vengeance, and a haunting prophecy. Directed by Tim Sutton, this film offers a fresh yet grounded take on the Western genre, blending visceral action with psychological depth and a touch of existential dread. Set against the unforgiving backdrop of the late 19th-century American frontier, The Last Son explores themes of fate, redemption, and the cyclical nature of violence. Below is an in-depth, engaging review of the film’s narrative, performances, cinematography, strengths, weaknesses, and its place within the modern Western canon.
Plot Summary
At its core, The Last Son is a tale of a cursed family unraveling in the desolate expanses of the Wild West. The story centers on Isaac Lemay (Sam Worthington), a notorious outlaw whose life is overshadowed by a chilling prophecy: he is destined to be killed by one of his own sons. Driven by paranoia and desperation to defy this fate, Lemay embarks on a ruthless quest to hunt down and eliminate his offspring before they can fulfill the prophecy.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Isaac crosses paths with Cal (Colson Baker, aka Machine Gun Kelly), a son he abandoned years ago. Cal, hardened by a life of neglect and fueled by a burning desire for retribution, emerges as a formidable adversary. Their conflict is further complicated by the pursuit of a relentless federal marshal (Thomas Jane) and a cunning bounty hunter (Kim Coates), who are both drawn into the fray for their own reasons. As the body count rises and loyalties blur, The Last Son weaves a tapestry of violence, betrayal, and the inescapable weight of family ties.
The film’s plot is deceptively simple, but its strength lies in its exploration of complex human emotions. The prophecy serves as a narrative catalyst, but the real drama unfolds in the fractured relationship between father and son, set against a backdrop of lawlessness and moral ambiguity. The story raises profound questions about whether one can outrun fate or if our actions inevitably shape our destiny.

Strengths of the Film
1. Authentic Western Atmosphere
The Last Son captures the essence of the American frontier with breathtaking authenticity. The film’s cinematography, helmed by David Gallego, paints a vivid picture of the Wild West—dusty plains, jagged mountains, and ramshackle towns bathed in muted, earthy tones. The wide-angle shots of the desolate landscape evoke a sense of isolation and danger, while close-ups during tense confrontations amplify the emotional stakes. The film balances gritty realism with a slightly stylized aesthetic, giving it a modern edge while paying homage to classic Westerns like The Good, the Bad and the Ugly or Unforgiven.
2. Compelling Performances

The cast of The Last Son delivers performances that elevate the film beyond its straightforward premise:
- Sam Worthington shines as Isaac Lemay, embodying a man torn between cold-blooded pragmatism and inner turmoil. His portrayal is layered, conveying both the ruthlessness of a seasoned killer and the quiet desperation of a father haunted by his past. Worthington’s ability to express vulnerability through subtle gestures—like a fleeting glance or a clenched jaw—adds depth to a character who could have easily been one-dimensional.
- Colson Baker (Machine Gun Kelly) is a revelation as Cal. Known primarily as a musician, Baker proves his acting chops with a raw, intense performance. His portrayal of Cal is equal parts volatile and sympathetic, capturing the pain of a son rejected by his father and the rage that drives his quest for vengeance. Baker’s chemistry with Worthington is electric, especially in their confrontational scenes.
- Supporting actors Thomas Jane and Kim Coates bring gravitas to their roles as the marshal and bounty hunter, respectively. Though their screen time is limited, both actors infuse their characters with charisma and menace, making every moment they’re on screen memorable.
3. Tense Action Sequences

While The Last Son isn’t an all-out action extravaganza, its action scenes are well-executed and impactful. The film features several gripping shootouts, each choreographed with precision to emphasize the brutality of the era. From quick-draw duels to chaotic ambushes, the action feels grounded and visceral, avoiding the over-the-top theatrics of some modern blockbusters. The sound design—crisp gunshots and the creak of leather—further immerses viewers in the high-stakes encounters.
4. Thematic Depth

The film’s exploration of fate and family sets it apart from typical Western fare. The prophecy haunting Isaac Lemay serves as a metaphor for the cyclical nature of violence and the sins of the father passing to the son. The story delves into questions of free will versus destiny, asking whether Isaac’s attempts to defy the curse are what ultimately bring it to fruition. Additionally, the fractured bond between Isaac and Cal adds an emotional layer, making their conflict more than just a physical showdown—it’s a tragedy of broken trust and lost opportunities for reconciliation.
5. Haunting Score
The film’s score, composed by Phil Mossman, complements its somber tone. Sparse, melancholic guitar riffs and ambient sounds create an eerie atmosphere, underscoring the film’s themes of doom and inevitability. The music never overpowers the visuals but enhances the emotional weight of key scenes, particularly those involving introspection or betrayal.
Weaknesses of the Film

Despite its strengths, The Last Son has a few shortcomings that prevent it from reaching the heights of genre classics:
- Predictable Plot Points: While the premise of a cursed prophecy is intriguing, some plot developments feel formulaic. The trajectory of Isaac and Cal’s conflict follows a familiar arc, and certain twists—particularly in the climax—are telegraphed early on, reducing the element of surprise.
- Underdeveloped Supporting Characters: The characters played by Thomas Jane and Kim Coates, while well-acted, are underutilized. Their motivations and backstories are only hinted at, leaving them as compelling but shallow additions to the narrative. More screen time or depth for these characters could have enriched the story.
- Pacing Issues: The film’s pacing is deliberate, focusing heavily on character development and atmosphere. However, this slow-burn approach may frustrate viewers expecting the relentless momentum of traditional Westerns. Some scenes linger longer than necessary, diluting the tension in parts of the second act.
- Limited Exploration of the Prophecy: The concept of the curse is central to the plot but remains somewhat vague. The film doesn’t fully explore its origins or implications, leaving some questions unanswered. A deeper dive into this supernatural element could have added another layer of intrigue.
Why Watch The Last Son?

The Last Son is a must-watch for fans of the Western genre who appreciate a blend of action, drama, and psychological complexity. It’s a film that respects the traditions of the genre while carving out its own identity through its focus on family dynamics and existential themes. While it may not reinvent the wheel, it delivers a solid, emotionally resonant story bolstered by strong performances and stunning visuals.
For those who enjoy films like No Country for Old Men or The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, The Last Son offers a similar mix of introspection and violence. It’s also a great pick for viewers curious about Colson Baker’s transition from music to acting or those who admire Sam Worthington’s ability to carry a film with quiet intensity.
Overall Verdict
The Last Son (2021) is a compelling addition to the modern Western genre, offering a grim yet captivating tale of a cursed outlaw and his vengeful son. Its strengths lie in its atmospheric visuals, standout performances, and thought-provoking themes, though it’s held back by a somewhat predictable plot and uneven pacing. For those willing to embrace its slower, more contemplative moments, the film delivers a rewarding experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
IMDb Rating: 4.8/10
Personal Rating: 7/10
Runtime: 1h 36m
Genre: Western, Action, Drama
Recommended For: Fans of character-driven Westerns, psychological dramas, and stories about family conflict.
Additional Information
- Director: Tim Sutton
- Cast: Sam Worthington, Colson Baker (Machine Gun Kelly), Thomas Jane, Kim Coates
- Release Year: 2021