40 Acres is a gripping post-apocalyptic thriller that delivers intense action while weaving in thought-provoking themes of survival, cultural preservation, and generational trauma. Set in a dystopian future where food scarcity has driven society into chaos, the film follows the Freeman family—Hailey and Galen Freeman, played with commanding presence by Danielle Deadwyler and Michael Greyeyes—as they defend their farmland from violent marauders with a taste for human flesh. The film merges elements of dystopian horror, action, and family drama, creating a relentless experience that never lets up.

Thematically, 40 Acres is rich with cultural references and historical weight. The title itself alludes to the unfulfilled Reconstruction-era promise of “40 acres and a mule” for freed Black Americans, and the film explicitly nods to Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower, a novel about resilience in the face of societal collapse. These influences are embedded organically into the story, never overwhelming the action but reinforcing the film’s underlying message about survival, legacy, and the costs of fighting for one's land.

As a directorial debut, R.T. Thorne demonstrates a strong command of tension, pacing, and brutal action choreography. The fight sequences are visceral, with Deadwyler and Greyeyes delivering raw, physical performances that make every punch, slash, and gunshot feel weighty. The gore is plentiful, and the film doesn’t shy away from showcasing the horrors of this new world, making each encounter with the cannibalistic raiders pulse with dread.

The film immediately pulls you in with a striking opening sequence, setting the tone for a relentless ride that doesn’t disappoint. The film closes with Slow Up by Jacob Banks, a song that perfectly captures the themes of resilience and perseverance. R.T. Thorne's background in music videos is apparent throughout, with a wonderful use of music that evokes emotion in just the right moments.

Originally reviewed following its screening at SXSW 2025.