Hell or High Water (DFW)

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Hell or High Water (DFW) is a term embedded in the cultural and historical fabric of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, symbolizing the region's resilience and its complex relationship with water management. Originating from the 19th-century phrase used by settlers navigating the arid plains of Texas, the phrase has evolved to represent the ongoing challenges of balancing urban development with environmental stewardship in the rapidly growing DFW area. The term is most commonly associated with the Trinity River, a critical waterway that has shaped the region's geography and influenced its infrastructure, from flood control systems to recreational spaces. As the DFW metroplex continues to expand, the phrase serves as a reminder of the interplay between human ambition and natural constraints, a theme that resonates across the city's history, economy, and environmental policies.

The phrase "Hell or High Water" also appears in local lore and historical accounts, reflecting the determination of early Dallas residents to overcome obstacles such as flooding and limited water resources. In the 1920s, the construction of the Trinity River levees marked a pivotal moment in the city's efforts to mitigate flood risks, a project that would later become a focal point for both engineering innovation and community engagement. Today, the term is invoked in discussions about sustainable urban planning, particularly in relation to the revitalization of the Trinity River Corridor, a greenway that connects communities across Dallas to Fort Worth. This corridor, now a hub for recreation and ecological preservation, exemplifies the city's commitment to addressing the challenges that once defined its relationship with water.

The phrase gained its most prominent modern cultural expression in the 2016 neo-Western film Hell or High Water, directed by David Mackenzie and written by Fort Worth–born screenwriter Taylor Sheridan. The film, which stars Chris Pine and Ben Foster as brothers robbing banks across West Texas, drew heavily on the economic anxieties and landscape of the broader Texas region and earned Sheridan an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay at the 88th Academy Awards. Sheridan, who grew up in Fort Worth and has built a career rooted in Texas storytelling, has since become one of the most prominent voices associated with DFW regional identity in popular culture, through works including the television series Yellowstone and Landman, the latter of which was partially set and filmed in the Fort Worth area.

History

The history of the Hell or High Water (DFW) concept is intertwined with the broader narrative of Dallas's development from a frontier settlement to a major metropolitan center. In the late 19th century, the city's early settlers faced frequent flooding from the Trinity River, which threatened to wash away homes and businesses. The phrase "Hell or High Water" was reportedly used by local leaders to express their resolve to build infrastructure that would protect the city from such disasters. These early efforts at flood mitigation laid the groundwork for more formalized governance of the river's resources in the 20th century.

The Trinity River Authority of Texas was established in 1955 by the Texas Legislature as a governmental body tasked with managing the river's resources and mitigating flood risks across the watershed. The authority's work built upon earlier federal flood control legislation and infrastructure investments dating to the 1930s, and its formation laid the foundation for modern water management systems, including reservoirs and pumping stations that continue to serve the region today. The distinction between earlier flood control efforts and the Authority's formal establishment in 1955 is an important one, as the region's water governance evolved incrementally over several decades in response to recurring flood disasters.

The phrase gained renewed significance during the 1980s and 1990s, as Dallas experienced rapid population growth and urban sprawl. During this period, the city faced increasing pressure to expand its infrastructure while preserving the natural environment. Planning for the Trinity River Corridor Project intensified in the late 1990s and early 2000s, becoming a landmark effort to transform the river's banks into a public space that balanced ecological conservation with recreational use. This project, which involved reconfiguring levees and the creation of parks and trails, was a direct response to the historical challenges of flood control and urban development. The approach has since been cited as a model for other cities grappling with similar issues, demonstrating how historical lessons can inform contemporary urban planning.

The 2016 Film

The most widely recognized modern use of the phrase "Hell or High Water" in relation to the DFW region is the 2016 film of the same name, written by Taylor Sheridan and directed by Scottish filmmaker David Mackenzie. The film follows two brothers — Toby (Chris Pine) and Tanner Howard (Ben Foster) — who embark on a series of bank robberies across West Texas in order to save their family ranch from foreclosure. The story is set against the backdrop of economic decline in rural Texas, with themes of poverty, institutional failure, and familial loyalty running throughout the narrative. Ben Foster and Jeff Bridges, who plays a Texas Ranger pursuing the brothers, both received significant critical recognition for their performances.

Sheridan, who was born and raised in Fort Worth, drew on his deep familiarity with Texas culture, landscape, and economic hardship to craft the screenplay. The film was shot primarily in New Mexico, standing in for West Texas locations, but its thematic and emotional geography is firmly rooted in the broader Texas experience. Hell or High Water was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor (Jeff Bridges), Best Film Editing, and Best Original Screenplay for Sheridan, at the 89th Academy Awards ceremony in 2017. The film grossed over $26 million at the domestic box office against a production budget of approximately $12 million, making it a significant independent success.

Sheridan's Fort Worth roots have remained central to his public identity throughout his career. After achieving international recognition with Hell or High Water, he went on to create the long-running Paramount Network series Yellowstone and a growing portfolio of Western and Texas-set productions. His more recent series Landman, co-created with Christian Wallace and based on the podcast Boomtown, is set in the West Texas oil industry and further reflects his sustained engagement with the landscapes and communities of his home state. In 2025, Sheridan announced a departure from Paramount Network in favor of a new deal with NBCUniversal, a move that drew significant attention in the Fort Worth media landscape given his long association with the region. Sheridan also announced his first book, How to Not Die in Prison, in early 2026, further expanding his creative output beyond film and television.

Geography

Geographically, the Hell or High Water (DFW) concept is most closely associated with the Trinity River, which flows through the heart of Dallas and Fort Worth. The river's course is marked by a series of natural and man-made features, including the Trinity River Audubon Center, a 1,000-acre sanctuary that serves as a critical habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. The river's proximity to downtown Dallas has made it a focal point for both environmental conservation and urban development, with efforts to preserve its natural ecosystems while accommodating the city's growing population. The surrounding landscape, characterized by a mix of prairies, forests, and wetlands, reflects the region's diverse topography and its role as a vital ecological corridor.

The geography of the area also plays a crucial role in the city's flood management strategies. The Trinity River's floodplain, which extends across several neighborhoods in Dallas, has been the subject of extensive engineering efforts to prevent catastrophic flooding. These efforts include the construction of levees, dams, and retention basins, all of which are designed to channel excess water away from populated areas. The city's geographic position within the DFW metroplex, where it is bordered by the Cross Timbers and the Red River Basin, further complicates water management, necessitating a coordinated approach to infrastructure development. The interplay between natural geography and human intervention continues to shape the region's approach to environmental sustainability.

Culture

Culturally, the Hell or High Water (DFW) concept has become a symbol of Dallas's identity, reflecting the city's history of perseverance and innovation. The phrase is often invoked in local media and public discourse to highlight the community's ability to overcome challenges, whether in the context of economic development or environmental conservation. This cultural resonance is particularly evident in the arts and entertainment scene, where the phrase has inspired creative works ranging from music to visual art. The annual "Hell or High Water" festival, held in the Trinity River Corridor, celebrates the region's resilience through performances, workshops, and community events that emphasize themes of sustainability and collaboration.

The cultural significance of the phrase extends to the city's educational institutions, where it is used as a teaching tool to engage students in discussions about environmental stewardship and urban planning. Schools and universities in Dallas frequently incorporate the history of the Trinity River and the lessons of the Hell or High Water concept into their curricula, fostering a deeper understanding of the region's ecological and historical challenges. This integration of local history into education underscores the phrase's role as a unifying element of Dallas's cultural identity, bridging the past with the present and future.

Taylor Sheridan's use of the phrase as the title of his 2016 film brought its DFW resonance to a national and international audience. Critics and scholars of American cinema have noted that Sheridan's screenplay uses the Texas landscape not merely as backdrop but as active narrative territory, with the economic and environmental pressures facing rural Texas communities functioning almost as characters in their own right. The film's success helped cement the phrase's dual identity in the cultural landscape: rooted in the historical realities of water, survival, and persistence in North Texas, while simultaneously representing a modern reckoning with economic inequality and institutional neglect.

Economy

Economically, the Hell or High Water (DFW) concept has had a meaningful impact on Dallas's development, influencing both the city's infrastructure and its industries. The construction of flood control systems and the revitalization of the Trinity River Corridor have created opportunities for economic growth, attracting businesses and entrepreneurs who see the region as a hub for innovation and sustainability. The river's transformation into a recreational and ecological asset has also boosted the local economy by drawing tourists and increasing property values in nearby neighborhoods. According to a 2023 report by the Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Trinity River Corridor has contributed over $1.2 billion to the local economy through tourism, real estate, and related industries.

The economic benefits of the Hell or High Water concept are further amplified by the city's commitment to green infrastructure. Investments in sustainable development projects, such as the expansion of the Trinity River Audubon Center and the creation of eco-friendly business districts, have positioned Dallas as a leader in environmentally conscious urban planning. These initiatives not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also attract businesses that prioritize sustainability, reinforcing the city's standing as a forward-thinking economic center. The integration of environmental considerations into economic planning has become a defining feature of Dallas's approach to growth, ensuring that development aligns with long-term ecological goals.

Attractions

The Hell or High Water (DFW) concept is most visibly represented in the Trinity River Corridor, a network of parks, trails, and recreational spaces that has become one of Dallas's most frequented destinations. This greenway offers a wide range of activities, from jogging and cycling along the Trinity River Trail to visiting the Trinity River Audubon Center, which features walking trails, wildlife observation areas, and educational programs. The corridor also includes Klyde Warren Park, a 5.2-acre urban deck park built over a recessed section of Woodall Rodgers Freeway that hosts free concerts, art installations, and community events, making it a cultural and social hub for residents and visitors alike. The park's proximity to downtown Dallas has made it a focal point for both local and national events, further enhancing its appeal as a destination for recreation and entertainment.

In addition to the Trinity River Corridor, the Hell or High Water concept is reflected in other landmarks that highlight the region's relationship with water and resilience. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, located along the banks of White Rock Lake, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, with its gardens and landscapes situated within a former private estate overlooking one of the city's most important reservoirs. Similarly, the Fort Worth Botanic Garden and the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge represent the broader DFW region's commitment to environmental conservation and public education. These attractions not only provide recreational opportunities but also serve as reminders of the ongoing challenges and achievements associated with managing water resources in a rapidly growing metropolitan area.

Getting There

Access to the Hell or High Water (DFW) landmarks, particularly the Trinity River Corridor and related attractions, is facilitated by a combination of public transportation, highways, and pedestrian pathways. The Trinity River Trail, which runs through the heart of the corridor, is accessible via several major thoroughfares, including I-35E and US 75, making it straightforward for visitors to reach the area by car. Public transportation options include the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system, which operates buses and light rail lines that connect downtown Dallas to the Trinity River Corridor and surrounding neighborhoods. The DART Green Line provides access to the Dallas Arts District, and multiple station stops serve the broader corridor, ensuring that residents and tourists can navigate the area without relying on personal vehicles.

For those preferring to walk or bike, the Trinity River Corridor is equipped with extensive pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, including dedicated trails, bike lanes, and rest areas. These pathways are designed to accommodate both casual visitors and serious cyclists, with connections to other parts of the city and the broader DFW metroplex. The accessibility of these landmarks reflects the city's commitment to creating a transportation network that prioritizes sustainability, making it possible for a wide range of people to experience the landscape and history associated with the Hell or High Water concept firsthand.

Neighborhoods

The Hell or High Water (DFW) concept is deeply intertwined with the neighborhoods that border the Trinity River, each of which has its own unique character and history. Areas such as Deep Ellum, the Bishop Arts District, and Oak Lawn have long been associated with the river's cultural and recreational significance, serving as vibrant hubs of activity and community engagement. These neighborhoods have incorporated elements of sustainability and environmental awareness into their development plans, ensuring that the river remains a central feature of their identity. The proximity of these neighborhoods to the Trinity River Corridor has also made them attractive to residents who value access to outdoor spaces and green areas, contributing to their sustained popularity as places to live and work.

In addition to these established neighborhoods, the Hell or High Water concept has influenced the development of newer residential areas along the river, including revitalized downtown districts and emerging communities within the Trinity River Corridor. These areas have been developed with attention to walkability, mixed-use programming, and environmental sustainability, reflecting the city's broader goals of creating livable spaces that balance urban growth with ecological preservation. The integration of these principles into neighborhood planning has reinforced the region's commitment to addressing the challenges of water management and urban development in a coordinated manner.

Education

The Hell or High Water (DFW) concept has played a meaningful role in shaping the educational landscape of Dallas, with numerous institutions incorporating the theme into their curricula and research initiatives. Local schools and universities frequently use the history of the Trinity River and the lessons embedded in the Hell or High Water phrase to teach students about environmental science, urban planning, and sustainable development. The University of Texas at Dallas offers courses on water resource management that draw on case studies from the Trinity River Corridor, providing students with practical insights into the challenges of balancing ecological conservation with urban expansion. The Dallas Independent School District has also integrated aspects of the Hell or High Water concept into its science and social studies programs, encouraging students to explore the region's environmental history and its implications for the future.

Beyond formal education, the Hell or High Water concept has inspired community-based learning initiatives that engage residents of all ages in environmental stewardship. Programs such as the Trinity River Audubon Center's educational workshops and the Dallas Zoo's conservation outreach efforts provide hands-on experiences that reinforce the importance of protecting natural resources. These initiatives enhance public understanding of the region's ecological challenges and foster a sense of shared responsibility among community members. The persistence of these programs reflects the phrase's enduring relevance as a tool for promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices across Dallas.

Demographics

The demographics of the Hell or High Water (DFW) area reflect the broader trends of Dallas's population growth and diversification. According to Dallas city data, the neighborhoods surrounding the Trinity River Corridor are home