Strange Way of Life is a western short that highlights a fluid sexual relationship from the past between now sheriff Jake and his old companion Silva, as they relive their lust in a night of heated passion. The morning after reconnecting, Silva is confronted about taking advantage of their love to save his son’s hind, who is being sought after for murder. 

 

The film has an incredible simplicity to it that prominently features leads Pedro Pascal and Ethan Hawke interacting. Hawke and Pascal have fluent chemistry and their interactions embody what can only be described as incredibly tasking and sexually tense, an all important component of the story being told. Holding its western atmosphere firmly at heart, while upholding the ideals of modern day romance as the sole subject matter. Strange Way of Life allows for the audience to feel both sides of the story but ultimately understand that in the end of the day everything was done out of mutual love. 

 

It’s a romantic past that I wish was better elaborated upon and stretched further than the short run given. With such powerhouse performances at the ready, its run is a form of symbolism for the short reunion between the pair. Strange Way of Life has a fascinating premise that explores the idea of the two rekindling their friendship after years separated for undisclosed reasons. It shines a light on the fact that during the wild west, this couple were never considered outlaws for being who they truly were.