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Operation Wilderness: A South Dakota Journey — Chapter One is a 2025 American neo-Western adventure drama film written, co-produced, and directed by Taylor Sheridan. Produced by Legendary Pictures and The Stone Quarry and distributed by Lionsgate Films, it is the first installment in the titular film series. The film stars an ensemble cast that consists of Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Dennis Quaid, Anthony Mackie, Jeremy Renner, Ben Foster, Vincent D'Onofrio, Chris Pine, Emma Stone, Michelle Latimer, and Gil Birmingham. It is set in modern-day South Dakota and follows the exploits of Jessie Oakley, a resourceful and caring teenage girl who joins up with her grandfather's organization to protect and preserve the wildlife against French Fur Traders, who are interested in profit. Chapter One opened in theaters on December 12th, 2025; the film received widespread acclaim, with praise for the story, visual style, direction, action sequences, depth, the performances of Armstrong, Quaid, Mackie, Renner, Foster, and Birmingham, cinematography, Hans Zimmer's musical score, themes, and emotional weight. However, it received minor criticism for its long running time of 3 hours and 18 minutes. The film was a box-office success and grossed over $710 million worldwide, making it Sheridan's highest-grossing directorial film. A sequel entitled Operation Wilderness: A South Dakota Journey — Chapter Two is in development.

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  • The Following Content is Rated "PG-13": Contains Adult Language, Dark Themes, Gritty Images, and Violence. Viewer's Discretion Advised!
  • Plot: Jessie Oakley, a young yet adept hunter, navigates the dense forests with confidence and skill. Her daily routine includes solo hunting expeditions, where she demonstrates compassion for the wildlife she encounters. Despite her competence, Jessie is increasingly frustrated by the presence of French Fur Traders, who she perceives as a significant threat to the ecosystem she cherishes. This tension sets the stage for her deep-seated desire to protect the wilderness at all costs.
  • Jessie's father, James, takes her to meet Dallas, her grandfather and the leader of Operation Wilderness. During this visit, they present Jessie with an opportunity to join their ranks, an offer she accepts with enthusiasm. As she integrates into the team, Jessie meets its diverse members, including her godfather Martin and the loyal ally Donald Vance. However, her introduction is marred by a clash with Frank Deckard, whose disobedient nature contrasts sharply with the group's disciplined ethos.
  • Jessie embarks on rigorous training under the guidance of Operation Wilderness. Her natural aptitude for hunting and her unwavering determination quickly earn her the admiration of her peers. She forms a close bond with Martin, who becomes a mentor figure, and learns tracking techniques from her Uncle Jacob, a skilled US Fish and Wildlife Service tracker.
  • Jessie faces her first major challenge: a poaching incident orchestrated by the French Fur Traders. Her quick thinking and bravery during the operation not only save endangered animals but also solidify her reputation within the organization.
  • Tensions within Operation Wilderness rise as Frank's reckless actions endanger a mission. Dallas and James step in to mediate, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and adherence to their mission's principles.
  • Jessie deepens her understanding of animal behavior under the tutelage of her mother, Lake, an expert in animal communication. This knowledge becomes crucial during a rescue mission involving a rare species, showcasing Jessie's ability to apply what she's learned in high-pressure situations.
  • A pivotal moment occurs when Jessie thwarts a dangerous trap set by the French Fur Traders. Her actions prevent potential disaster, earning her further respect and cementing her role as a key player in Operation Wilderness.
  • The team celebrates a successful operation, marking Jessie's official recognition as a full-fledged member of Operation Wilderness. Her bond with the team strengthens, yet Frank's resentment simmers beneath the surface.
  • Jessie forms a special bond with Robert Danville, a Native American fur trapper, while James teaches her to watch her surroundings very carefully. During a quiet moment, Robert shares a cherished photo of his daughter, drawing parallels between her and Jessie.

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