The Last Rodeo, from Angel Studios

There is probably no more annoying expression than “this isn’t my first rodeo,” because most of the people who say it have never even been to a rodeo. This is definitely not Joe Wainwright’s first rodeo, but considering the state of his beat-up, broken-down fifty-years-plus body, it could very well be his final hurrah—period. However, he is not doing it for glory or vanity. He risks life and limb for family in Jon Avnet’s The Last Rodeo, which release tomorrow in theaters, from Angel Studios.

Wainwright is a former three-time bull-riding champion. Unfortunately, he did not walk away from his last ride. He was carried. In many ways, Wainwright’s life is like a country song. His beloved wife died, leading him to recklessly drink and bull-ride, which nearly killed him. However, his devoted grown daughter Sally helped patch him back together. In the years since, he has been sober and a model grandfather. Consequently, when young Cody is diagnosed with a rare and precariously positioned brain tumor, he takes it as hard as his daughter.

Their insurance will not cover the entire cost of the surgery (which quickly turns into surgeries), but the national bull-riding championship is scheduled for the coming weekend. Technically, all past champions are invited to appear. Of course, nobody expects them to compete and Wainwright never bothered to reply, but he can’t think of any better options. So, Wainwright convinces his old friend, trusted “bull-fighter,” and fellow Afghanistan vet Charlie Williams to help him mount his sudden comeback.

Sure, The Last Rodeo probably sounds predictable, but the same can be said for most films. Regardless, this is definitely a character study. Avnet and his co-screenwriter star, Neal McDonough show viewers what it is like for cowboys when age catches up with them. Rugged masculinity faces a tough challenge when faced with mortality. However, Avnet and McDonough still celebrate Wainwright for fighting the good fight.

In fact, Last Rodeo is notable and laudable for spotlighting three recognizable character actors in prime feature spots. McDonough has always been a reliably steely or flamboyantly villainous supporting player, but Angel has given him well-deserved opportunities as a leading man (following-up on Homestead). This could be his career-best performance, powerfully embodying Wainwright’s physical toughness and the painful feelings he has trouble expressing.

Mykelti Williams (probably still best known as Bubba Blue in Forrest Gump) elevates the loyal best friend role with several scenes that really hit hard on an emotional level. Christopher McDonald also brings his usual sly wit and big screen presence as their old crony-turned rodeo impresario, Charlie Mack, but he tones it down to human scale. Frankly, all three look credible and comfortable in this world of cowboys and bulls. Obviously, that is also true for Daylon Swearingen, a real-life professional bull-rider, who plays the odds-on favorite, Billy Hamilton.

Everyone assumes the cowboy way of life has just about vanished, but Last Rodeo helps viewers understand how it yet persists. It is a heartfelt film, but it neatly sidesteps a lot of expected cliches. It also reminds us why McDonough, Williams, and McDonald each have page after page of screen credits. They are really good at what they do. Highly recommended for those who appreciate contemporary Western Americana, The Last Rodeo opens tomorrow (5/23) in theaters, including the AMC Empire in New York.