Branded

In this post-apocalyptic-western, Alexander Dante has lived the past 10 years in exile for the killing of Edwin, his beloved brother. Then one day he's astounded to receive a letter, purportedly from Edwin. The letter states Edwin now lives in the distant village shown on the enclosed map. At first, Alexander dismisses the letter as a hoax but there's something about the letter that rings true. He treks through a hard and hostile land that at long last opens up into a tranquil village. There, he's stunned to confront the impossible: his brother is very much alive. Alexander is overjoyed to see his brother but he is tormented as he knows he has killed him. Now Alexander must root out the truth -- whatever the consequences.

Directed by Phil Gorn, Branded leans on a strong ensemble — Jeremy London, Jason London, Susan Duerden — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about western titles of 2017.