Republic Pictures is all set to come out blazing with High Ground,, the latest thriller from James Bamford, a director whose stunt pedigree—more than evident in his work on the likes of “Arrow” and Hard Home—infuses the film with a visceral kineticism. Bamford pivots from action choreography to character-driven suspense, resulting in a high-stakes drama that positively crackles with tension.
Anchored by Charlie Weber (“How To Get Away With Murder”), Katherine McNamara (“Arrow”, “Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments”), Henry Thomas (“Midnight Mass,” E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial), and the venerable Jon Voight (Midnight Cowboy, Deliverance), High Ground unfolds in a desolate border town. A sheriff’s precarious equilibrium is shattered when a mysterious prisoner triggers a brutal cartel’s wrath, forcing him into a crucible of loyalty, survival, and criminal underworld violence.
John Thaddeus’ screenplay, based on Bill Sondheim’s story, is complemented by a solid supporting cast, including Dustin Ingram (“Good Trouble”), James Oliver Wheatley (5lbs of Pressure), and Skyler Shaye.
In anticipation of the film’s digital release on March 18, 2025, CinemaChords spoke with Henry Thomas about High Ground’s explosive action and the compelling performances that define this high-octane thriller. Thomas also reflected on the dynamics of working with seasoned actors like Jon Voight, which led to a poignant recollection of his collaboration with the late Gene Hackman on Jerry Schatzberg’s 1983 drama, Misunderstood.
