'Must see' thriller compared to Yellowstone available to stream now

An 'underrated' dark comedy film that has been likened to early Coen brothers and the hit TV series Yellowstone, boasts a perfect score.

That is despite its quiet release in the US and UK in early 2024, as it became one of the highest-rated films of the year on Rotten Tomatoes with a 100% rating.

The film is now available for streaming on Now and Sky Cinema, allowing movie buffs to enjoy one of the best-reviewed films of the past year.

Its cast includes John Magaro, known for his roles in Past Lives and The Many Saints of Newark, and Steve Zahn, recognised for his performances in The White Lotus and War for the Planet of the Apes.

In LaRoy, Texas, Ray (played by Magaro) needs money to help his wife start a business. However, his Private Investigator friend Skip (Zahn) suggests she might be having an affair.

After being mistaken for a hitman and given an envelope full of cash, Ray finds himself pursued by the real killer as he tries to escape town with both the money and his life.

The cinematic offering LaRoy, Texas is still receiving praise as more fans discover the title, as it draws parallels with the early work of iconic directing duo Coen brothers, celebrated for their masterpieces like Fargo and No Country For Old Men, reports the Daily Record.

One critic enthused: "LaRoy, Texas is full of Coen brothers-style charm, with its dark humour, absurd interludes, and existential middle-of-nowhere location combined with a solid level of bloody violence and characters you can't help but root for."

Another critic succinctly described the motion picture as a "Zany Coen brothers-like comedy thriller", while yet another heaped on compliments saying: "LaRoy, Texas channels the Coen brothers in a hilarious black comedy with tragic twists. John Magaro, Steve Zahn, and a terrifying Dylan Baker are superb in a film that continually surprises. LaRoy, Texas is a must-see."

Equally impressed were outspoken movie buffs who took to social media to share the stylistic confluences they noticed between LaRoy, Texas and the creative world of the Coen brothers. A fan expressed on the web: "A modern western, with grit and a dash of dark comedy. Think southern Fargo without the Minnesota accent. The actors are spot on for their respective parts. I enjoyed the ending, but could be easily convinced it should have been better."

Fans are raving about the latest movie - a dark comedy sending shockwaves through cinemas with its brilliant script and unexpected turns. One praised: "Loved this movie! Totally unexpected. A great dark comedy. One of my favorites I've seen this year."

Another enthusiast shared: "Genuinely excellent. Surprisingly good and very Cohen brother like. This odd buddy crime dark comedy really ticks all the boxes and ends as strong as it starts. Yes is absurdly implausible but it's so much fun you quickly forget about the destination and just enjoy the ride. All the cast are excellent and the direction and writing truly shine. This film is violent at times but never gratuitously and though there is nothing new or unique here what there is is expertly crafted and delivered."

Moreover, certain aspects of the film have drawn parallels to a cult classic television series due to the distinctive cowboy-style outfit donned by one actor, reminiscent of Yellowstone's aesthetic. Viewers can't get enough as evidenced by one comment: "Fabulous directing. Perfect casting. Outrageous cinematography. Not quite as gruesome as Yellowstone."

Sky Cinema offers the film for an additional £10 a month with existing Sky TV packages, while NOW Cinema Membership has it available for £6.99 per month for six months. Alternatively, customers can choose an Entertainment and Cinema bundle for £13.99 a month, also for six months.

LaRoy, Texas is streaming on NOW and Sky Cinema.