The Stars Fell On Henrietta (1995) [Warner Archive Blu-ray review]

The Stars Fell on Henrietta arrived less than 30 years ago, however it is obscure. But, what’s the deal with it? I’ll break it down for those that think anything made prior to 2000 is an oldie.

Clint Eastwood’s backing a slow-burn drama that slipped under the radar and Robert Duvall? He’s the beating heart of this Depression-era gem. Duvall plays Mr. Cox, an aging oil prospector chasing one last dream beneath the dusty plains of Texas. It’s not a blockbuster. It’s a character study—one that’s all about perseverance, the fragility of hope, and the harsh realities of the American Dream when it feels out of reach.

There is Oil to be had!

Released during a time when flashy blockbusters ruled the box office, The Stars Fell on Henrietta didn’t make much of a splash. The 90s had Forrest Gump, The Shawshank Redemption, and Pulp Fiction dominating conversations, leaving quieter, introspective films like this one in the dust. But just because it didn’t grab headlines doesn’t mean it doesn’t belong in the conversation.

Produced by Clint Eastwood, you can feel his influence all over the film. Eastwood has a knack for quiet Americana, and this one fits right in. The film’s slower pace reflects the tone of the era it’s portraying—the Great Depression wasn’t a fast-paced action thriller, after all.

Sure, the pacing can drag for some, but for fans of subtle character dramas, The Stars Fell on Henrietta offers a thoughtful exploration of survival, faith, and the brutal reality of holding onto dreams in a time when they feel more like luxuries.

I drink your milkshake

This isn’t There Will Be Blood. I say that to temper expectations of what The Stars Fell on Henrietta will provide. To start, let’s talk about the cast full of 80s and 90s character actors that don’t get much play in 2024.

Aidan Quinn plays Don Day Briggs, a struggling farmer hanging on by a thread. Enter Cox, this quirky, down-on-his-luck oil man who promises Don Day that his barren land might hold oil—hope, really—just waiting to be tapped. Frances Fisher plays Don Day’s wife, Cora, who sees right through Cox’s charming spiel but clings to that sliver of hope for her family’s sake

It’s not all dreams and oil wells, though. Director James Keach is more interested in showing us the grind of survival in a world that doesn’t owe you anything. The movie digs deep into the bones of that old American promise: strike it big, get rich, escape your troubles. That’s where The Stars Fell on Henrietta sets itself apart. It’s not a rags-to-riches story. It’s more about the gut-wrenching what-ifs.

The stars fell on Henrietta, but not on thee

Robert Duvall is the lifeblood of this film. His Mr. Cox is both full of hope and haunted by failure. Duvall’s charm is undeniable, but there’s a weariness that makes you question whether he’s chasing oil—or running from something else. His performance alone is worth a rewatch.

Aidan Quinn’s portrayal of Don Day anchors the story in something raw. Here’s a guy who’s done everything right but can’t catch a break. The desperation in his eyes when he listens to Cox’s wild promises is heartbreaking. Frances Fisher’s Cora brings a quiet but solid strength to the mix. She’s the realist in this trio, skeptical but desperate enough to back her husband in his final gamble.

Brian Dennehy shows up as Big Dave McDermot, the local oilman who doesn’t believe in fairy tales—or wildcatters like Cox. He’s the film’s reality check, and Dennehy plays it with just enough bite to make you nervous about Cox’s next move.

And let’s not forget Billy Bob Thornton. His character, Roy, is the film’s touch of humor, adding some much-needed levity to an otherwise heavy story.

Let’s talk about the Warner Archive Blu-ray

The Stars Fell on Henrietta is quite the obscure selection from Warner Archive. I typically expect to see older underground titles, cult interests and general classics from them. So, a Malpaso entry from the 90s feels odd.

The Warner Archive Blu-ray release breathes new life into this overlooked film. With a crisp 1080p transfer, the sweeping shots of the Texas plains look sharper than ever. The rich, earthy tones of the landscapes and the dusty, sun-worn faces of the characters are rendered with a new depth. Every detail of the period clothing, the aging farmhouses, and the crumbling oil rigs pops.

Audio-wise, the DTS-HD Master Audio mix delivers clarity, especially in the dialogue and score. David Benoit’s gentle, melancholic score complements the film’s themes of struggle and hope without overpowering the subtle performances.

Make the upgrade

If you’ve only ever seen The Stars Fell on Henrietta on DVD, the Blu-ray is a worthy upgrade. The enhanced visuals and remastered sound make for a richer, more immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the film’s quieter moments and scenic grandeur.

This is the definitive version for fans of character-driven dramas. The Blu-ray’s restoration makes this film feel more relevant than ever, especially in today’s world where people are still grappling with the same themes of survival and hope. Plus, you get a trailer!

The Stars Fell on Henrietta is now available on Warner Archive Blu-ray from MovieZyng