The Last Stop in Yuma County

If you're into gritty, slow-burn thrillers with a retro vibe and a sharp edge, then The Last Stop in Yuma County might just be your next favorite watch. Set in the dusty isolation of 1970s Arizona, this neo-Western crime thriller throws a traveling knife salesman into a tense hostage situation at a remote diner. With no gas, no way out, and a pair of dangerous bank robbers holding everyone at gunpoint, things spiral into a deadly standoff where trust is scarce and survival is anything but guaranteed.

The film is the feature debut of writer-director Francis Galluppi, and it’s clear he poured his heart into it. Shot over just 20 days on a modest $1 million budget, the movie makes the most of its single-location setting and builds suspense with every passing minute. Galluppi’s background in music and his experiences traveling through small towns helped shape the eerie, out-of-place atmosphere that permeates the film.

The cast includes Jim Cummings, Jocelin Donahue, Richard Brake, Faizon Love, and Michael Abbott Jr., all of whom bring a grounded intensity to their roles. The story unfolds in a confined space, but the tension is anything but small. As more characters enter the diner—each with their own secrets and motivations—the pressure cooker scenario gets hotter, leading to a violent and unpredictable climax.

Critics have been loving it. With a 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and praise for its smart writing and tight construction, The Last Stop in Yuma County has been called a standout debut. Even horror legend Sam Raimi took notice, reportedly tapping Galluppi for a future Evil Dead project.

This movie is perfect for fans of crime thrillers, neo-Westerns, and character-driven suspense. If you liked films like No Country for Old Men or Reservoir Dogs, you’ll probably enjoy the tense, dialogue-heavy setup and explosive payoff here. On the flip side, if you’re looking for fast-paced action or big-budget spectacle, this one might feel a bit too slow or contained.

With its recent digital and Blu-ray release, now’s a great time to check it out. Just don’t expect a feel-good story—this is a gritty, blood-soaked tale where nobody gets out clean.