
The Rider premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2017 to critical acclaim, with praise for its authentic portrayal of life in America's heartland and its deeply personal storytelling. Initial reception highlighted the film's raw, naturalistic style and the lead actor's compelling performance. Over time, The Rider has grown in reputation, often cited as an underrated gem that offers a unique and poignant exploration of identity and resilience. It is celebrated for its poetic realism and remains influential among indie and western genre enthusiasts, rather than being seen as a dated relic. Its status continues to rise as more viewers discover its emotional depth and artistry.