Waco (1966): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1966, Waco is an action, romance and western film directed by R.G. Springsteen, running about 85 minutes. “They let him out of jail - to kill for them!” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Preacher Sam Stone and his new beautiful wife Jill stand by the grave of Sheriff Billy Kelly, who died trying to bring law-and-order to Emporia, Wyoming. Among the mourners are businessman George Gates, mayor Ned West and his daughter Patricia. The mayor rejects Gates' suggestion that he release gunfighter Waco from jail to clean up the town. When Patricia is attacked by a cowboy after leaving her boyfriend Scotty Moore, the mayor finally decides it is time accept the governor;s offer of amnesty for Waco. Jill Stone's first reaction, when learning that Waco has been released, is to leave town before Waco finds out that she, his former fiancée, has married the town preacher while Waco was in jail. Town boss Joe Gore is not overjoyed, either, but Ike and Pete Jenner eagerly await the chance to shoot Waco for the death of their brother. Written by Les Adams

Who’s in it. Waco stars Howard Keel as 'Waco', Jane Russell as Jill Stone, Brian Donlevy as Ace Ross and Wendell Corey as Sam Stone, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 5.7/10, Waco has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Waco page.

If you liked it. Fans of Waco tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Inception and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.