Underrated Horror Western ‘The Pale Door’: A Must-Watch for ‘Bone Tomahawk’ Fans

Genre films hold a unique place in cinema, with fans often flocking to see the latest entries in sci-fi, fantasy, crime, Westerns, and horror. Although big blockbusters dominate theatres, many genre films have shifted to niche audiences and streaming platforms as filmmaking costs have risen and CGI has become more prevalent. Despite this, horror remains robust, with a steady stream of films that cater to its dedicated fan base. In 2024 alone, movies like ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ and ‘Trap’ have demonstrated the genre’s vitality. 

Westerns, however, are less common today, making Aaron B. Koontz’s 2020 film ‘The Pale Door’ a notable entry. This low-budget horror Western combines elements of classic pulp Westerns with a chilling twist. The film follows the Dalton gang, a group of outlaws who plan to rob a train but encounter a town of women with a dark secret.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

 As the story progresses, it blends traditional Western tropes—such as saloon brawls and train heists—with eerie horror elements, creating a unique cinematic experience.

Despite its modest budget, ‘The Pale Door’ boasts a strong cast including Zachary Knighton, known for his roles in both horror and comedy and character actors like Pat Healy and Stan Shaw. The film’s visual and thematic elements effectively capture both Western and horror genres, even if the Western setting sometimes appears overly pristine. Koontz’s direction, reminiscent of his previous work on ‘Scare Package’, effectively utilizes budget constraints to deliver an engaging story.

Image Courtesy: IMDb

The film also benefits from executive producer Joe R. Lansdale, a renowned genre writer. As a Shudder original,  ‘The Pale Door’ fits well with the streaming service’s commitment to niche horror content. In an era where streaming services are increasingly fragmented, Shudder stands out by catering to devoted horror fans.

 ‘The Pale Door’ may not have the polish of major genre films, but it successfully combines Western and horror elements into a cohesive and entertaining film. It offers a fresh take for fans of both genres, providing a thrilling blend of Western adventure and supernatural horror.

-Farheen Ali