Tommy Lee Jones co-writes, directs and stars in this frontier-set drama. Jones stars as George Biggs, an army deserter and claim jumper, who is saved from near-death by the headstrong and pious spinster Mary Bee Cuddy (Hilary Swank). Mary, who has taken on the responsibility of caring for three mentally unstable local women, is on her way to Iowa, where a minister's wife (Meryl Streep) has agreed to take the women into her care. Recognising that the journey will be dangerous, Mary asks George to accompany her across the harsh landscape and offer protection as a way of repaying her act of kindness. With no other option, George agrees. But neither of them can prepare for the numerous threats they will face en route...