Watch The Iron Orchard

The Iron Orchard is a powerful and captivating drama film from 2018 that depicts the classic American story of the self-made man. The movie follows the life of Jim McNeely, a young and ambitious man from a poor family who dreams of making it big in the booming Texas oil industry during the 1930s. Played by Lane Garrison, Jim is a charming and determined protagonist who moves to West Texas to pursue his dreams of wealth and success. He starts out as a roustabout and works his way up to become a wildcatter, a term used for oil prospectors who drill in untested areas. Along the way, he meets a range of colorful characters, including a beautiful and adventurous woman named Lee Montgomery (Hassie Harrison) and a seasoned oilman named Dent Paxton (Austin Nichols).

The film is based on the novel of the same name by Tom Pendleton and was directed by Ty Roberts. The Iron Orchard is a visual and emotional masterpiece that is sure to captivate audiences with its stunning cinematography, gripping plot, and admirable characters. The movie explores the harsh realities of the oil industry during the Great Depression, including the risks and challenges faced by those who were determined to strike black gold.

Throughout the film, Jim McNeely navigates the treacherous waters of the oil business, facing incredible successes and devastating failures. He learns important lessons about perseverance, loyalty, and the volatile nature of the industry. As he climbs higher up the ladder of success, he begins to realize the true cost of his ambitions and the sacrifices he has made along the way.

Hassie Harrison gives an exceptional performance as Lee Montgomery, a woman who is just as driven and determined as Jim. She is a fearless adventurer who is drawn to the excitement and danger of the oil fields, and she quickly becomes one of Jim's closest allies. Through her complex and nuanced portrayal of Lee, Harrison manages to capture the spirit of a woman who defied societal expectations and pursued her passions with courage and determination.

Austin Nichols is equally impressive as Dent Paxton, a seasoned oilman who takes Jim under his wing and helps him navigate the treacherous waters of the oil industry. Nichols provides a lot of depth to the role, infusing Paxton with a quiet wisdom and a powerful presence on screen.

The Iron Orchard is not just a movie about the oil industry, however. It is a story about the American dream and the price one is willing to pay to achieve it. It’s a testament to the resilience and determination of a young man who never gave up on his dreams despite the odds stacked against him.

Overall, The Iron Orchard is a powerful and moving film that explores the complexities of human nature and the American spirit. With stunning visuals, superb acting, and a gripping plot, this movie is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves character-driven dramas or has an interest in the history of the American oil industry.

The Iron Orchard is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6 and a MetaScore of 43.