The landscape of modern crime thrillers is littered with stories of violence, secrets, and the elusive search for redemption. “Buried in Barstow” drives right to the heart of that genre, pinning its hopes, heartbreaks, and high-stakes tension on the cracked desert asphalt of a small California town. This Lifetime original film, led by a stellar cast and a creatively gritty production team, delves into themes that resonate well beyond its dust-choked setting. For viewers seeking a fresh, character-driven entry into the crime drama canon, “Buried in Barstow” has become a standout—merging tightly wound suspense with moments of raw vulnerability.
Plot Overview of “Buried in Barstow”: From Las Vegas to the California Desert
At the core of “Buried in Barstow” lies Hazel King, a fiercely protective single mother grappling with a dangerous past. Hazel, portrayed with steely resolve by Angie Harmon, escaped a brutal life as a hitwoman for a Las Vegas crime syndicate to raise her daughter Joy in the relative obscurity of Barstow. But the past refuses to stay buried—when a mysterious stranger arrives in town and her old boss resurfaces, Hazel is drawn violently back into a world she’d sworn to leave behind.
The story’s tension is heightened by its snowballing complications:
- Hazel’s attempts to shield Joy not just from violence, but from the truth about her mother’s history.
- The arrival of Elliot, whose motivations are unclear but whose presence sets off a chain of fateful events.
- A tightly-knit community that both supports and scrutinizes Hazel’s every move.
Instead of relying solely on high-octane action, the narrative weaves together suspense and deep emotional stakes. Critics point to the film’s “pulpy, propulsive storytelling and nuanced take on loyalty and guilt” as central to its appeal.
“Hazel is the emotional anchor in a story that’s equal parts noir and maternal drama. Her duality—at once relentless and deeply human—is what elevates the film.”
— Crime fiction reviewer Natalie Bower, Noir Today
The film’s pacing—methodical, yet punctuated by bursts of violence—mirrors Hazel’s own journey through trauma, self-preservation, and reluctant heroism.
Main Cast and Notable Performances
Angie Harmon as Hazel King
Harmon brings her veteran experience from shows like “Rizzoli & Isles” and “Law & Order” to create a character who is at once intimidating and relatable. Her portrayal blends emotional depth with authentic physicality, drawing strong critical acclaim.
Supporting Cast
- Kristoffer Polaha (Elliot): As the enigmatic drifter, Polaha provides a spark of unpredictability and chemistry, keeping the audience guessing about his true intentions.
- Lauren Richards (Joy King): Richards delivers a nuanced take on the daughter caught in the crossfire, underscoring the generational impacts of buried secrets.
- Bruce McGill (Von): McGill offers gravitas as Hazel’s former boss, wielding menace and respect in equal measure.
Many industry observers credit the casting as a key contributor to the film’s success, noting the ensemble’s balance of grit, vulnerability, and commitment.
Themes: Redemption, Motherhood, and the Price of Escape
“Buried in Barstow” stands out not just for its action, but for the hard questions it poses about redemption and the ties that bind. Hazel’s story is ultimately about a mother’s fight to rewrite her destiny, facing down violent legacies and personal demons alike.
Redemption Narratives in Crime Thrillers
Redemption arcs have been a reliable touchstone for modern thrillers, as seen in hits like “Breaking Bad,” “Queen of the South,” and “Ozark.” “Buried in Barstow” leans into this tradition, but sharpens its focus by grounding Hazel’s motivations in motherhood.
Feminine Perspective in a Traditionally Male Genre
While many crime thrillers still orbit male antiheroes, “Buried in Barstow” puts a complex woman at the forefront. This widens its appeal and injects the genre with fresh urgency—a trend supported by research into audience engagement, with viewers often responding positively to narratives that subvert traditional gender roles in crime media.
Real-World Context: Women-Led Crime Dramas on the Rise
The film’s success is not an anomaly; it emerges amid a surge of interest in women-centered crime dramas. Data from major streaming services highlights a marked increase in titles foregrounding female antiheroes or detectives, with “Mare of Easttown” and “Killing Eve” drawing millions of dedicated viewers.
This contemporary appetite, combined with Angie Harmon’s bankable star power, virtually guaranteed “Buried in Barstow” a broad initial audience. Following a strong response, Lifetime quickly announced development of sequels—a further indication of the film’s resonance and the market’s hunger for smart, woman-driven thrillers.
Streaming Guide: Where to Watch “Buried in Barstow”
For those eager to experience Hazel’s adrenaline-fueled journey, “Buried in Barstow” is available through a range of platforms:
- Lifetime: The original broadcaster; episodes are typically accessible via cable VOD and the Lifetime website.
- Streaming Services: Depending on regional availability, the film may stream on subscription platforms such as Hulu or through digital rental options (Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play).
- On-Demand: Cable subscribers can access the film via their provider’s on-demand offerings.
It’s advisable to check both Lifetime’s recent schedule and popular OTT services for the most up-to-date streaming options, as licensing agreements and regional access may shift over time.
Critical Reception and Audience Impact
Critics and viewers alike have offered enthusiastic (if nuanced) praise for “Buried in Barstow.” Angie Harmon’s lead performance, in particular, has drawn significant acclaim for its blend of toughness and empathy—a quality that resonates both with crime drama aficionados and casual viewers seeking a compelling narrative.
Social media sentiment and review aggregators show generally above-average ratings, with specific attention paid to:
- The film’s taut, suspense-driven script.
- Relatable but high-stakes emotional conflicts.
- The subversion of genre expectations via a female lead.
This positive feedback loop has translated into tangible momentum for the planned sequels, suggesting a strong appetite for more Hazel King stories.
The Making of “Buried in Barstow”: Production Insights
Filmed primarily in and around Barstow, California, the production team aimed for authenticity—both in location and tone. The filmmakers leveraged the region’s stark, sun-bleached landscape to reinforce the film’s themes of isolation, endurance, and concealment.
Behind the scenes, the choice to collaborate with local talent and craftspeople created a sense of grounded realism. Industry interviews highlight the production’s commitment to both safety and community involvement, particularly during pandemic-affected months. This approach has become increasingly common as film teams seek to foster goodwill and minimize logistical risks in smaller-town settings.
Sequel Plans and the Future of Hazel King’s Story
With viewer numbers and social media engagement outpacing expectations, Lifetime has signaled intent to expand the “Buried in Barstow” universe. Early confirmation of a sequel (and speculation about a longer franchise) reflects both the internal confidence of the studio and the broader trend of episodic storytelling in television movies.
For fans, this means the promise of more twists, layered character beats, and revelations as Hazel’s past continues to catch up with her—all set against the atmospheric backdrop that made the first installment so compelling.
Conclusion: The Lasting Allure of “Buried in Barstow”
“Buried in Barstow” exemplifies how crime thrillers can transcend formula by centering on textured, imperfect characters and emotionally charged stakes. With a gripping plot, nuanced performances, and a setting steeped in metaphor and reality, the film captures the enduring tensions between past and present, violence and redemption, danger and love. Given its impact and audience response, Hazel King’s journey is likely to shape discussions of women-led crime dramas for years to come.
FAQs
What is “Buried in Barstow” about?
“Buried in Barstow” tells the story of Hazel King, a former Las Vegas hitwoman trying to start a new life as a single mother, only to be forced back into crime as her past catches up with her in a small California town.
Who stars in “Buried in Barstow”?
The film is headlined by Angie Harmon as Hazel King, with standout roles from Kristoffer Polaha, Lauren Richards, and Bruce McGill rounding out the main cast.
Where can I stream or watch “Buried in Barstow”?
Viewers can find “Buried in Barstow” on Lifetime, and it may also be available through streaming services like Hulu, digital rental platforms, or on-demand via participating cable providers.
Is there a sequel planned for “Buried in Barstow”?
Yes, following strong ratings and audience interest, Lifetime has confirmed that a sequel is in development, with plans for additional installments depending on ongoing viewer demand.
What sets “Buried in Barstow” apart from other crime thrillers?
The film distinguishes itself by centering a complex, strong female lead and focusing on the emotional costs of violence and redemption, pushing boundaries within the crime thriller genre.
Are there similar crime thrillers led by female protagonists?
Yes, in recent years, there’s been a surge in crime dramas featuring women in lead roles, such as “Killing Eve” and “Mare of Easttown,” reflecting increased interest in more diverse and representative storytelling.
