Recommended for you
In Taylor Sheridan’s Wind River, which came out wayyyy back in 2017, a young Indigenous woman’s body is found frozen in the Wyoming wilderness. The mystery gripped audiences with its suspense as much as its stark setting, and it's easy to see why it was such a success. Now that the film is finally getting a sequel, we're on the edge of our seats to see what kind of mysteries this second installment offers. Keep reading for all the details we have so far.
Here's everything you need to know about the Wind River sequel (and whether Taylor Sheridan is involved).
What is Wind River about?
The 2017 film Wind River was a neo-Western crime thriller written and directed by Taylor Sheridan. It stars Jeremy Renner as Cory Lambert, a U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service tracker, and Elizabeth Olsen as Jane Banner, an FBI agent. Together, they investigate the death of Natalie Hanson, a young Indigenous woman found frozen on the Wind River Indian Reservation in Wyoming.
The film was praised for its stark setting, strong performances, and the way it shed light on violence against Indigenous women. With a modest budget of around $11 million, it went on to gross more than $45 million worldwide, earning critical acclaim and landing a spot on the National Board of Review’s list of Top Ten Independent Films of the year.
Is there a Wind River part 2?
Acacia Filmed Entertainment
Because the first film was both a commercial and critical success, talk of a follow-up has been in the air for some time. In November 2022, a sequel was officially announced. This time, Sheridan is not involved. Instead, Kari Skogland, known for The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, steps in as director. Writers Patrick Massett and John Zinman, along with Matthew George, are credited with shaping the story.
What is Wind River: The Next Chapter about?
Fred Hayes/The Weinstein Company
The new film shifts the focus to Chip Hanson, played by Martin Sensmeier. Fans may remember him as a supporting character in the original. In the sequel, Chip has become a tracker for U.S. Fish & Game. When a string of ritualistic murders haunts the reservation, the FBI once again steps in. Chip is pulled into the investigation, and tension rises as different groups — authorities, vigilantes, and members of the reservation — all push against each other in the search for answers.
Fans of the first film may notice the shift in creative leadership with Sheridan not involved. Still, the return to the Wind River setting promises the same blend of mystery, stark landscapes, and social commentary. The story looks to deepen conversations around justice, trauma, and community, while also offering a fresh perspective through Chip’s character.
Is Jeremy Renner in Wind River 2?
The Weinstein Company
So far, Jeremy Renner is not returning for the sequel — but some familiar faces are! While both Jeremy Renner and Elizabeth Olsen are not expected to return, the expanded cast suggests a broader story that builds on the themes of the original.
Who is in the Wind River: The Next Chapter cast?
The Weinstein Company
Two familiar faces will return: Martin Sensmeier as Chip Hanson and Gil Birmingham as Martin Hanson, Chip’s father and Natalie’s grieving parent. They are joined by a new ensemble that includes:
- Jason Clarke
- Scott Eastwood
- Chaske Spencer
- Alan Ruck
- Kali Reis
- Tatanka Means
Is there a Wind River: The Next Chapter release date?
The Weinstein Company
The movie was filmed in Calgary, with principal photography wrapping in 2023. As of now, there is no official release date announced.
Want more exclusive content and deep dives into your favorite pop culture? Subscribe to our Weekend Watch, curated by yours truly! Trust me, you don't want to miss out on the fun.
