In a recent exclusive interview, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Hollywood legends Mario Van Peebles and his son Mandella Van Peebles, both of whom are starring in the upcoming film Outlaw Posse. Set against the rugged backdrop of the American West, this thrilling tale of justice, revenge, and hidden Confederate gold promises to captivate audiences with its unique blend of action, humor, and unexpected alliances.
The film introduces us to Chief, portrayed by the charismatic Mario Van Peebles, a badass gunslinger with a personal code of justice. After laying low in Mexico, Chief makes a bold decision to return to the American West, assembling a misfit posse of outlaws to pursue a chest of hidden Confederate gold. The eclectic group includes Southpaw (Jake Manley), a left-handed quick-draw expert; Spooky (DC Young Fly), a bawdy vaudeville performer; Carson (John Carroll Lynch), an enforcer and former partner-in-crime; and Queeny (Amber Reign Smith), a knife-wielding saloon girl.
However, Chief's arch-nemesis, the sadistic Angel (William Mapother), catches wind of his plan. To ensure the success of his nefarious agenda, Angel captures Chief's estranged son Decker, portrayed by the talented Mandella Van Peebles. Decker, a classically trained musician, is forced to infiltrate his father's posse, serving as Angel's spy.
As the outlaws embark on their perilous journey, they find ingenious ways to turn their diverse backgrounds into strengths. Chief persuades Spooky to join forces with Southpaw by posing in 'white face' to rob a bank, a nod to the notorious Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. However, when the plan goes awry, an unexpected twist unfolds as Decker shows up to aid the posse, securing his position within the group.
The journey takes the outlaws to an outpost run by the wise Ossie (Edward James Olmos), where their horses are stolen. Forced to hitch a ride with the wily frontierswoman Stagecoach Mary, played by the incomparable Whoopi Goldberg, the posse is led to the utopian barter town of Lil’ Heaven, run by Horatio (Cedric the Entertainer). Here, they recruit the outcast dynamite expert, Jeremiah (Allen Payne).
While the outlaws navigate through various challenges, Angel and his iron brigade trail closely behind, increasing the stakes for Chief and his posse. The climax unfolds in the vast mines containing a maze of tunnels where the precious gold is unearthed. Decker learns the truth about his complicated backstory with his father, but before he can reveal his identity as a spy for Angel, a confrontation occurs.
The old arch-enemies, Chief and Angel, finally come face-to-face, forcing father and son to unite. The Outlaws, outnumbered and outgunned, are pushed to their limits as they fight for more than just their lives. With adrenaline-pumping action, unexpected alliances, and emotional revelations, Outlaw Posse promises to be a cinematic rollercoaster that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
Mario Van Peebles and Mandella Van Peebles shared insights into their experiences working on this dynamic film, expressing their excitement for the unique storyline and the opportunity to bring these complex characters to life. As the release date approaches, anticipation builds for this wild ride through the Old West, where justice wears a rugged exterior, and the bonds of family and loyalty are tested in the face of danger. Outlaw Posse is poised to be a cinematic masterpiece that blends the best elements of action, drama, and humor, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting its arrival in theaters.
Jessie Hobson