Stream it on Netflix.
I once mentioned on this blog how the western genre, as in stories of Cowboys and the old west, is still a viable element in modern cinema. I also mentioned how most of them tend to recall aspects of American history (both in their settings and the times they were made) that most of us would prefer to ignore or forget about. Not the least of which is the unfortunate and often overlooked whitewashing of American history and folklore. This, incidentally, is why I find today's movie, Concrete Cowboy, to be a wonderful and impactful presentation of the classical genre, a subversion of expectations, and a commentary on the black condition all rolled into one. This is one film that deserves your utmost attention.
Set in modern-day Philidelphia, the story follows thirteen-year-old Cole (Caleb McLaughlin), who is sent to live with his father, Harp (Idris Elba), after getting into another fight, nearly expelling him from school. Harp operates a make-shift stable and raises horses with his fellow Cowboy friends. Cole runs into his childhood friend nicknamed Smush (Jharrel Jerome), who has chosen a life on the streets as a drug runner but has ambitions for something better. Cole, meanwhile, hates being stuck with his estranged father but has managed to form an unexpected bond with one of the horses and takes an interest in learning how to care for and ride them. Will he learn the way of the Cowboy, or will he fall yet another victim of circumstance?
The film is packed full of unexpected and timely elements. For example, there really is a collective of modern-day cowboys who raise horses in the middle of Philadelphia. It continues to provide opportunities and hope for people within the community. The film even features some of the actual members of the aforementioned community in the cast. Not to mention the hardships they face from the many discriminatory practices of old and new. Sadly, something that is easy to overlook and must be repeated if things are to ever change for the better. The most obvious and well-made scene best illustrating this notion is towards the end, which I will not spoil, but let's just say it brings a certain recent event to your attention.
The cast is remarkable. Idris Elba delivers his professionalism and natural charisma to his role and screen presence. Caleb McLaughlin turns in a remarkable showcase of range. I always knew this kid was talented after seeing him in one of my favorite Netflix shows, Stranger Things, and I am glad to see him challenging himself and showcasing his capabilities. I hope to see him in more future projects. The supporting cast is chock-full of likable and fun characters delivered by stellar performers, including Lorraine Toussaint as the cool tough love "aunt" and Method Man representing what it should take to be a genuine officer of the law.
If I am allowed one nitpick, I wasn't particularly fond of the film's pacing. There were times when the movie felt as if it was dragging on for a bit too long. I understand why it maintained that pace, as it fits the intended mood and theme of the story. Even so, I would have preferred that the film had a bit more variety in its tempo. To be fair, it does have moments that provide such variety, but they're too few and far between.
Despite that, Concrete Cowboy is a beautiful film that could not have arrived at a better time. It's one of many recent films reminding us why it's important to step out of our own bubbles from time to time and acknowledge the serious changes and reformations needed in the modern world.
Check this one out.
Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm; thank you all for reading.
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