🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Jean-Baptiste Leonetti
- Genre: Thriller, Action, Adventure
- Release year: 2014
- Runtime (length): 1h 31min
- IMDb rating: 5.4/10 (12K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 15%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
A rich dude goes hunting, accidentally shoots someone, then plays a sadistic game of hot-and-cold with his guide in the desert because…reasons.
🍿 Beyond the Reach: Detailed Plot Synopsis
A Hunting Trip Gone Wrong
Madec, a wealthy and arrogant businessman, hires Ben, a young and skilled tracker, to guide him on a hunting trip in the Mojave Desert. Madec intends to hunt bighorn sheep but lacks the necessary permits, showcasing his disregard for the law. Ben, struggling financially, reluctantly accepts the job.

The Accidental Shooting
During the hunt, Madec accidentally shoots and kills an old prospector named Charlie, mistaking him for his prey. Panicked and determined to protect his reputation and a major business deal, Madec attempts to bribe Ben to keep silent about the incident. When Ben refuses to cooperate, Madec’s true colors emerge.

A Deadly Game of Cat and Mouse
Madec, now viewing Ben as a threat, initiates a deadly game of cat and mouse. He strips Ben of his clothes, leaving him defenseless in the scorching desert with no water or supplies. Madec, armed with a high-powered rifle and driving a luxurious off-road vehicle, hunts Ben across the unforgiving terrain, confident that the elements will claim his life.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Madec (Michael Douglas): A wealthy, unscrupulous entrepreneur who hires Ben and then tries to eliminate him after an accidental shooting.
- Ben (Jeremy Irvine): A skilled young tracker who becomes the target of Madec after witnessing a crime.
- Laina (Hanna Mangan Lawrence): Ben’s girlfriend, who is waiting for Ben’s return.
- Sheriff Robb (Ronny Cox): The local Sheriff who is somewhat corruptible.
- Charlie (Martin Palmer): An old man who lives in the desert and is accidentally shot by Madec.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Madec: “I KILL YOU!” – Madec yells this during his relentless pursuit of Ben in the desert, highlighting his desperation and rage.
- Madec: “We had a deal. And where I come from, a deal is a deal.” – Said by Madec to try convince Ben with money to keep the accident quiet.
💰Box Office
- Budget: $7 million
- Domestic Gross: $45,895
- Worldwide Gross: $1,100,432
💥 Beyond the Reach Reviews
Personal Review
Okay, so I watched this movie mainly because I’m a sucker for Michael Douglas, and he didn’t disappoint as the arrogant baddie! The whole desert survival thing was intense, and I was totally rooting for the young guide. I remember thinking the ending felt a bit tacked on, like they didn’t know how to wrap things up. But overall, I was entertained, and that’s what matters, right?
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of survival thrillers”
- “Viewers who enjoy Michael Douglas playing villainous roles”
- “Those interested in films set in desert landscapes”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Violence”
- “Brief Nudity”
- “Some Language”
Professional Reviews
- IMDb: “Despite a predictable plot, Michael Douglas shines as a Gordon Gekko-esque villain in this desert thriller. Jeremy Irvine holds his own as the hunted guide, but the film suffers from a rushed and somewhat implausible ending that undermines its initial tension.
- Rotten Tomatoes: “While ‘Beyond the Reach’ delivers visually stunning desert landscapes and solid performances, its thin plot and questionable character motivations prevent it from reaching its full potential. It’s a watchable but ultimately forgettable thriller.
Audience Reactions
Michael Douglas’s performance as the ruthless Madec was captivating.: Viewers appreciated the stunning desert cinematography and suspenseful cat-and-mouse game.
The movie started strong but fizzled out with a disappointing and rushed ending.: Many agreed that the film could have been a great survival thriller if the plot had been more fleshed out and the ending better executed.
Overall Consensus: Despite strong performances and a visually appealing setting, ‘Beyond the Reach’ is ultimately let down by its predictable plot and underwhelming ending.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “One of the Mercedes’ designers flew in from Germany and lived with the crew for six weeks to make sure the truck endured the shoot.”
- “The film is based on the novel ‘Deathwatch’ by Robb White, which had previously been adapted into a 1974 TV movie called ‘Savages’.”
🖥️ How to Watch Beyond the Reach?
As of October 2024, ‘Beyond the Reach’ is available for rent or purchase on various platforms including Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Amazon Prime Video. Check your local listings for availability.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Beyond the Reach, you might like these similar films:
- The Most Dangerous Game (1932): Shares the core theme of a man being hunted for sport, establishing a similar sense of danger and suspense.
- Surviving the Game (1994): Features a homeless man who is lured into a deadly game where he is hunted by wealthy individuals for their entertainment.
- No Country for Old Men (2007): Offers a similar tone of cat and mouse chase in the desert, where a man is pursued by a relentless and amoral antagonist.
🛒 Beyond the Reach Related Products
- Gerber StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife: A rugged and reliable survival knife, essential for any outdoor adventure. It features a full tang construction, a diamond-textured rubber handle for superior grip, and a MOLLE-compatible sheath for easy carry.
- Survival Kit Emergency Gear: This comprehensive survival kit includes essential tools for navigating, signaling, medical emergencies, and shelter building. Compact and lightweight, perfect for adventurers and preppers alike.
- BioLite CampStove 2: A portable wood-burning stove that efficiently converts heat into electricity, allowing you to charge your devices while cooking. Compact, lightweight, and ideal for camping and backpacking.
- Desert Survival Guide: A comprehensive guide to surviving in desert environments, covering topics such as water procurement, shelter construction, navigation, and first aid. Packed with practical tips and survival strategies.
🎧 Soundtrack
Beyond the Reach features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
‘Beyond the Reach’ was primarily filmed in Aztec and Shiprock, New Mexico, USA, capturing the harsh beauty of the Mojave Desert.
Yes, ‘Beyond the Reach’ is based on the novel ‘Deathwatch’ by Robb White. The novel offers a more gruesome and detailed account of the events.
The title ‘Beyond the Reach’ refers to the idea of being beyond help, beyond the law, and in a situation where survival depends solely on one’s own resources and skills. It also reflects the arrogance of the wealthy Madec, who believes he is beyond the reach of justice.
🔥 Bonus Content
Michael Douglas Stars In ‘Beyond the Reach’ | TODAY
Want to hear Michael Douglas talk about playing a ‘dark’ character in ‘Beyond the Reach’? He gives some great insights into what drew him to the role. I think it’s really interesting to hear an actor’s perspective on their characters!
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