Released in 2005 and helmed by Wim Wenders, "Don't Come Knocking" centers on Howard Spence (Sam Shepard), a sixty-year-old former star of low-budget Westerns who is tired of his empty, scandalous life. While filming in Utah, he abandons the set, fleeing on horseback in search of something—a purpose, perhaps. His journey leads him to Butte, Montana, where he reconnects with an old flame (Jessica Lange), encounters a frustrated young musician (Gabriel Mann), and meets a mysterious woman who seems deeply spiritual (Sarah Polley). Simultaneously, the film company dispatches an unusual bounty hunter (Tim Roth) to retrieve Shepard for violating his contract. Despite being primarily a quiet drama, it possesses a distinctive artistic quality and charm. The film is notable for its stunning Western landscapes and a contemporary Country/Western/Rock-influenced soundtrack that avoids traditional twang. Many people can identify with Howard’s quest; therefore, even though the movie unfolds at a deliberate pace, it generally holds your attention throughout, unless you prefer action films packed with constant explosions and rapid editing. The younger characters Howard encounters, Earl and Sky, embody opposing viewpoints. Earl's name is apt because he embodies intense anger that seems to erupt from within (Earl/Earth). Conversely, Sky is entirely spiritual in nature (sky/heaven), radiating warmth, love, compassion, and forgiveness; she functions as a vital figure of grace without whom reconciliation would be impossible for anyone involved. A particularly striking scene occurs when Sky visits Howard in his hotel room. She gazes at him with eyes that convey profound understanding, which naturally makes Spence uncomfortable—he’s never experienced anything like it. Unsure how to react, he asks her to leave. On a separate note, Jessica Lange still appears youthful for being in her mid-50s, but I found her character somewhat odd and irritating. Also, Earl's girlfriend (Fairuza Balk) is an amusing free spirit who bears a resemblance to Steven Tyler’s daughter. The film's final section felt understated for my liking, but it’s worth watching if you appreciate the cast and enjoy eccentric independent dramas, as well as stories about the modern West that recall its past. "Don't Come Knocking" has a running time of 1 hour, 51 minutes and was filmed in Butte; Arches National Park and Moab, Utah; Elko and Wendover, Nevada; and Los Angeles. The screenplay was written by Sam Shepard and Wim Wenders. GRADE: B-

Source on TMDB