Natural State is a modern Western directed by award-winning filmmaker and educator Allen Mays. Set in modern-day Arkansas, “Natural State” takes the audience on a journey to answer one simple question: “How much of yourself are you willing to lose to protect your family?”
After returning from college, a young man inherits his family’s land and is targeted by a ruthless rival family. When his father is murdered, he must confront his morals—and make a life-or-death choice at the barrel of a gun
Drawing influence from films like “High Noon” and “Concrete Cowboy,” “Natural State” explores the man vs. man conflict and how it can transform an individual. Through three acts, Conway will go on a journey home and see them be the person his father wants him to be. The audience will be transported to a world of modern-day saloons and Air Force Ones, where every decision is important and impacts the character for life
Allen Mays was born and raised in Arkansas, and he grew up watching westerns. Yet, he never realized that the westerns he consumed were about where he lived. Mays didn't even realize that the cowboys who inspired him looked like him. In the past five years, there has been a resurgence in Western films in shows like “Yellowstone,” which has sparked renewed media interest in the West. Meanwhile, African Americans have been connecting with their southern and western roots. Films like Concrete Cowboy and albums like “Cowboy Carter” have highlighted a part of American history that some choose to ignore, but we are embracing.
Western films aren’t only about cowboys, horses, and guns; they are also about the endurance of the human spirit.
In a world of AI, we hope to shoot this film authentically in Northwest Arkansas in the Summer of 2026. We have already arranged to use real horses and riders, and we want to ensure that our film, in its entirety, is an authentic western.
Travel for certain crew members to Arkansas
Location fees and transportation
Camera equipment, props, and wardrobe
Craft services
Cast and crew salaries
Film festival entry fees
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