The 2017 neo-western thriller Wind River isn't just a gripping story of mystery and loss on a desolate Wyoming reservation; it's also a showcase of firearms, specifically rifles, used realistically within the context of the film's narrative. Understanding the rifles used adds another layer of appreciation for the film's authenticity and the characters' roles. This article delves into the specific rifles featured, examining their capabilities and significance within the movie.
The Primary Rifle: Remington 700
Cory Lambert, played by Jeremy Renner, the veteran game tracker at the heart of Wind River, utilizes a Remington 700 rifle throughout the film. This choice is significant because the Remington 700 is one of the most popular and widely used bolt-action rifles in the world. Its reputation for accuracy and reliability makes it a sensible choice for a seasoned hunter and tracker like Lambert. The film doesn't specify a particular caliber, but given the hunting context, it's likely a common hunting round such as .308 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield.
Why the Remington 700?
The Remington 700's prevalence in the film reflects its real-world popularity among hunters and law enforcement. Its depiction emphasizes its practicality and effectiveness in the harsh, unforgiving environment of the Wind River Indian Reservation. The film showcases the rifle's use for both hunting and, in a crucial scene, self-defense. Its familiarity to viewers further grounds the film in a sense of reality.
Other Rifles Seen in Wind River
While the Remington 700 takes center stage, other firearms make appearances, further enriching the film's visual storytelling and adding depth to the characters:
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Various Hunting Rifles: Throughout the film, we see other rifles in the hands of hunters and locals. These rifles are less prominently featured but contribute to the overall atmosphere and setting, reinforcing the hunting culture of the region. The specific models aren't always clearly identifiable, but they contribute to the film's realism.
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Law Enforcement Rifles (likely AR-15 variants): The FBI agents arriving to investigate the crime scene are armed with more modern rifles, likely AR-15 platform rifles. These represent a contrast to Lambert's more classic hunting rifle, highlighting the difference in approach and training between local trackers and federal agents. This subtle detail underscores the thematic differences between the characters and their respective roles in the investigation.
The Importance of Firearms in the Narrative
The depiction of firearms in Wind River is more than just visual spectacle. The rifles are integral to the plot, highlighting the characters' skills, backgrounds, and motivations. The contrasting types of rifles used emphasize the difference between the experienced local tracker and the outsiders investigating the case. The film's realistic portrayal of firearms adds to its overall credibility and immersive quality.
Conclusion: More Than Just Guns
The rifles in Wind River are not simply props; they are integral to the film's narrative, contributing to its realism, character development, and overall thematic resonance. By showcasing specific models like the Remington 700 and contrasting them with other firearm types, the film creates a nuanced and believable portrayal of the characters and their world. The attention to detail in the choice and depiction of firearms enhances the film's overall impact and reinforces its lasting impression.
