The film is set in the Arizona Territory in 1873 and follows Jake Lonergan (Daniel Craig), a man who wakes up in the desert with no memory and a mysterious metal bracelet on his wrist. As Jake makes his way to the town of Absolution, he learns that he is a wanted criminal and has a shady past.
The climax of the film occurs when Absolution is attacked by alien spacecraft, which abduct several townspeople, including Ella Swenson (Olivia Wilde). Jake’s mysterious bracelet turns out to be a powerful weapon that can harm the aliens. Joined by the skeptical and authoritarian Colonel Woodrow Dolarhyde (Harrison Ford), the townsfolk form an unlikely alliance to rescue their loved ones.
As the group pursues the aliens, they encounter various challenges and uncover Jake’s connection to the extraterrestrial invaders. The film seamlessly blends traditional Western elements, such as gunfights and cattle rustling, with high-tech alien technology and a quest for survival.
The movie explores themes of redemption, identity, and unity as the characters set aside their differences to confront a common enemy. Jake’s journey to reclaim his memories and confront his past adds a layer of mystery to the narrative.
The film concludes with a final confrontation between the townsfolk and the aliens. Sacrifices are made, and the surviving characters forge a new sense of community in the aftermath of the otherworldly invasion.
“Cowboys & Aliens” received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its unique genre blend and criticism for its pacing and character development. The film aimed to bring together fans of both Westerns and science fiction, offering a fresh take on the two genres.