Watch The Highwayman

The Highwayman is a 2000 thriller movie directed by Keoni Waxman and starring Stephen McHattie, Laura Harris, and Jason Priestley. The movie is set in rural British Columbia and follows the story of a family who finds themselves embroiled in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse with a ruthless criminal. The film opens with the arrival of a stranger, Jack, played by Stephen McHattie, who appears to be a drifter. He meets two local residents, Emma (Laura Harris) and her husband Dean (Jason Priestley), who offer to give him a lift. The couple are on their way to their isolated farmhouse, where they live with their young son, Benny.

Jack soon reveals himself to be a wanted criminal, and he takes the family hostage in their own home. As the movie progresses, we learn that Jack is on the run from the police after a botched robbery. He is a seasoned criminal who is smart and always one step ahead of the law.

With no other option, Emma and Dean decide to fight back against their captor. They must also protect Benny from Jack and hope that the police will arrive in time to save them. It becomes a game of who will outsmart the other.

Throughout the movie, we witness intense scenes of violence and terror, but also moments of compassion and understanding between the characters. The story is filled with twists and turns, with the audience kept on the edge of their seat until the very end.

One of the standout performances in the movie comes from Stephen McHattie, who portrays Jack as a complex character with a troubled past. McHattie lends an air of menace to the character, while also showing a vulnerable side to him that makes him more sympathetic to the audience.

Laura Harris also delivers a strong performance as Emma, who is forced to confront her own fears and vulnerabilities throughout the ordeal. She manages to portray the character's strength and resolve, while also showing cracks in her armor as the situation becomes more and more dire.

Jason Priestley, best known for his role in Beverly Hills 90210, brings a sense of everyman charm to his role as Dean. He is the backbone of the family, trying to protect them in any way he can.

The cinematography in The Highwayman is also noteworthy, with sweeping shots of the rugged Canadian countryside adding to the feeling of isolation and unease. The movie takes place almost entirely within the confines of the family's farmhouse, adding to the sense of claustrophobia and tension.

In conclusion, The Highwayman is a tense and gripping thriller with excellent performances from the cast. It's a masterfully made movie that keeps the audience on the edge of their seat until the very end.