The Real Story Behind Netflix's The Highwaymen

The True Story of The Highwaymen

The Highwaymen, a 2019 crime thriller on Netflix, delves into the gripping narrative of two Texas rangers, Frank Hamer and Maney Gault, tasked with pursuing and eliminating the notorious outlaws Bonnie and Clyde in the 1930s.

Hamer and Gault on The Highwaymen.

While The Highwaymen holds elements of historical accuracy, it also takes creative liberties in its portrayal of the events. The movie primarily focuses on the real-life lawmen, played by Kevin Costner and Woody Harrelson, rather than Bonnie and Clyde themselves.

Hamer talking to Gault in The Highwaymen

The Partnership of Hamer and Gault

The true events that inspired The Highwaymen unfold like a real-life buddy cop movie, with Kevin Costner's Hamer and Woody Harrelson's Gault, two former US Marshals, reuniting to stop Bonnie and Clyde. The film establishes an easy rapport between the two lawmen, drawing on their pre-existing relationship and collaboration.

Gault talking to Hamer in The Highwaymen

While The Highwaymen takes some liberties with the timeline of their partnership, it remains true that Hamer and Gault knew and worked together prior to the case. Additionally, Hamer personally selected Gault as his partner for the manhunt, mirroring the film's portrayal of their bond.

Hamer with a gun in The Highwaymen

The Truth and Fabrications

The Highwaymen presents a blend of truth and creative embellishments in its depiction of the events surrounding the pursuit of Bonnie and Clyde. While the movie captures the essence of the real-life manhunt, it also introduces fictionalized elements for dramatic effect.

Gault in The Highwaymen

From Gault's hardships to the encounters with Bonnie and Clyde, The Highwaymen weaves a narrative that intertwines fact and fiction, offering a compelling yet stylized retelling of historical events.

Woody Harrelson in The Highwaymen.