Rebel Ridge is an American action thriller that plunges viewers into the tense atmosphere of Shelby Springs, where the main character, Terry Richmond, confronts a corrupt police force. The story is brought to life by director and writer Jeremy Saulnier, known for his sharp storytelling skills.
Saulnier directed and produced the film alongside Macon Blair, Neil Kopp, Anish Savjani, and Vincent Savino. The film is set for a Netflix release on September 6, 2024, and has built hype before the release.
Filming kicked off in Louisiana on May 3, 2021, after a delay caused by the pandemic and an unexpected cast change when John Boyega exited the project, who was later replaced by Aaron Pierre.
The project has been a big journey for Saulnier. It took nearly five years from the initial casting announcement to its debut, overcoming challenges including script disputes and logistical delays to bring his cinematic vision to audiences.
Exploring all shooting locations of Rebel Ridge
Jeremy Saulnier's Rebel Ridge features a variety of authentic locations. The film’s principal photography occurred primarily in Louisiana, which is known for its diverse landscapes that can mimic numerous other parts of the United States.
New Orleans, Louisiana, served as a central hub for the film's production. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, New Orleans provided the urban backdrop necessary for several of the film's key scenes. The city's unique architecture and busy streets helped to bring the activity of Shelby Springs to life, contrasting sharply with the more subdued rural scenes.
Further into the quieter parts of the state, Leesville and Lacombe, Louisiana, provided the perfect settings for the small-town feel of Shelby Springs. Leesville, with its quaint main streets and close-knit community vibe, was ideal for depicting the town's facade of simplicity, which hides deeper and more sinister undercurrents.
Lacombe happens to be a location known for its scenic beauty and laid-back atmosphere, which contributed to the film's visual diversity and natural landscapes. These were crucial for some of the more introspective scenes in the movie.
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Cast and the characters they play in Rebel Ridge
Rebel Ridge features a dynamic cast, each bringing a unique touch to the thriller’s intriguing plot. Aaron Pierre stars as Terry Richmond, the film's protagonist who navigates the corrupt landscape of Shelby Springs.
His mission to recover unjustly seized bail money places him against the backdrop of a local conspiracy led by Chief Sandy Burnne, portrayed by Don Johnson. Johnson’s character epitomizes the small-town corruption that the film centers around.
AnnaSophia Robb plays Summer McBride, a court clerk who aids Terry in unraveling the town’s secretive wrongdoings. Her role is crucial in exposing the systemic issues within the town and providing Terry with the insider information needed to challenge the status quo.
Additional support comes from David Denman, as Officer Evan Marston, and Emory Cohen, as Officer Steve Lann, who represents the local law enforcement entangled in the town’s darker affairs. Steve Zissis joins as Elliot, who is involved in the deeper plot arcs.
The cast is rounded out by Dana Lee, who plays Mr. Liu, and James Cromwell, who brings to life the role of a judge, further embedding the judicial elements into the story’s fabric. Zsane Jhe portrays Officer Jessica Sims, bringing complications to the interactions between the town's law enforcement and its citizens.
Rebel Ridge will be streaming on Netflix on September 6, 2024.