Netflix has announced that ‘Rebel Ridge,’ the thriller from writer-director Jeremy Saulnier, will begin streaming exclusively on the platform on September 6.
The film follows Terry Richmond (played by Aaron Pierre), who arrives in the small town of Shelby Springs with a straightforward goal: bail out his cousin and save him from looming peril. However, when local law enforcement unjustly seizes Terry’s life savings, he is thrust into a high-stakes conflict with the town’s formidable police chief, Sandy Burnne (Don Johnson), and his team. Partnering with court clerk Summer McBride (AnnaSophia Robb), Terry discovers a deep-seated conspiracy that grips the entire town. As the danger escalates, Terry must leverage his enigmatic past to combat the corrupt system, achieve justice for his family, and safeguard Summer.
The cast also includes David Denman, Emory Cohen, Steve Zissis, Zsané Jhé, Dana Lee, and James Cromwell. The film is produced by Anish Savjani, Neil Kopp, Vincent Savino, and Saulnier, with executive producers Daniel Jason Heffner, Macon Blair, and Louise Lovegrove.
Reflecting on his inspiration for ‘Rebel Ridge,’ Saulnier shared, “As a filmmaker, I dig grounded ’80s and ’90s action films that not only deliver on spectacle but succeed in tying on-screen mayhem to a real and true emotional component. Smaller scale, bigger impact. Less veneer, less artificiality.” He emphasized his interest in creating a film with authentic craft and emotional depth.
Aaron Pierre, who plays the lead role, described Terry Richmond as “endlessly centered.” He expressed his excitement about the character, noting, “Just to be gifted the opportunity to play a character so nuanced and layered and complex and deeply human as Terry Richmond is undeniable.”
Saulnier also praised Pierre’s performance, recounting how his initial reservations were dispelled after a Zoom meeting. “His intelligence and thoughtfulness were intimidating. He was quiet and cool, deeply respectful and passionate. His physicality still vibed superhero but I was like, ‘Fuck it — he’s a superhero.’ And Aaron was, on-screen and off.”
The film delves into themes of corruption and morality, wrapped in a high-velocity thriller. “I am very interested in examining corrupt systems — how they are built and what people tell themselves to disavow or justify their own part in them,” Saulnier explained. He aimed to explore how individuals react to these systems, creating tension through both action and dialogue.
‘Rebel Ridge’ promises to be a thrilling ride, combining Saulnier’s signature style with powerful performances and a gripping narrative. Mark your calendars for September 6 to catch this exclusive release on Netflix.