The latest clip from Tubi Films’ dark western thriller, The Thicket, has dropped, and it’s already generating buzz. Starring Metallica’s James Hetfield and Game of Thrones alum Peter Dinklage, this gritty movie is shaping up to be a must-watch.
In the film, based on Joe R. Lansdale’s novel, Dinklage takes on the role of Shorty, a determined bounty hunter. He’s on a mission to track down a woman who’s been abducted by a ruthless killer. Hetfield, known for his powerhouse stage presence, brings that intensity to the big screen.
Set to hit theaters on Friday, September 6, The Thicket promises to deliver a thrilling ride. The clash between Dinklage and Hetfield is one fans won’t want to miss.
Entering the Big Thicket
Set in the early 1900s, The Thicket follows Shorty and his team as they venture into the treacherous and untamed region known as the Big Thicket. Alongside Peter Dinklage, the film features a star-studded cast including Juliette Lewis, Esmé Creed-Miles, Levon Hawke, and Leslie Grace.
Filmed last year, The Thicket is directed by Elliott Lester, known for his work on Blitz, with a script by Christopher Kelly. Lester shared the intriguing way James Hetfield joined the cast, saying, “It all began with a dream — one morning I woke up with a clear vision that James had to be in the movie.”
With a lineup that also includes Gbenga Akinnagbe, Macon Blair, Ned Dennehy, Andrew Schulz, and Arliss Howard, The Thicket is packed with talent. The combination of a gripping story and a compelling cast makes this film one to watch.
“Hetfield… Fit Perfectly With the Character We Envisioned”
Director Elliott Lester shared the determination behind casting James Hetfield in The Thicket. “James Hetfield, a Rock God, embodies a raw poetry that fit perfectly with the character we envisioned,” he said. Lester and Dinklage reached out through every possible connection.
Their breakthrough came when writer/director Sacha Gervasi, who had a connection to Hetfield, stepped in. Gervasi helped get the script to the Metallica frontman. “Despite our efforts, we were unsure if James would even consider the role,” Lester admitted.
To their surprise, Hetfield expressed interest within days. “The meeting that followed confirmed our hopes. James could not have been more humble,” Lester reflected, thrilled with the casting success.
Hetfield’s Passionate Commitment
Lester shared that James Hetfield had long dreamed of being part of a dark western, which made him a perfect fit for The Thicket. “From that point on, James was incredible,” Lester said. Hetfield’s dedication and passion brought a unique intensity to the film.
The director praised Hetfield’s work ethic, noting how hard he worked to fully embrace his role. “The journey with James has been extraordinary,” Lester added, emphasizing how Hetfield’s presence elevates the film to a new level.
This marks Hetfield’s second time playing a cop, following his role as Officer Bob Hayward in the 2019 Ted Bundy movie Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile.