The Great American Cowboy

"How far can a man push? How much can a man endure?"

Aug 14 1974 G 1h 29m
Documentary, Sport

The battle between two rodeo stars for the world championship: veteran Larry Mahan and newcomer Phil Lyne. Narrated by Cowboy Hall of Fame actor Joel Mc Crea, this Academy Award-winning documentary takes the viewer inside the rodeo arena with today's cowboys. Features incredible "in-the-saddle" photography.

Plot

Filmmaker Kieth Merrill chronicles the hardened lives of professional American rodeo riders and workers as they travel across the country and participate in grueling events. The film draws comparisons between these 20th-century athletes and the true cowboys of the old American West, while focusing on two riders who are battling for the world championship: Larry Mahan, a seasoned veteran of the rodeo circuit, and Phil Lyne, a promising young rookie.

Written by

Douglas Kent Hall

Directed by

Kieth Merrill

Production Countries

United States of America

Production Companies

American National Enterprises, Merrill-Rodeo Film, Rainbow Adventure Film

Languages

English

Awards

Won 1 Oscar. 2 wins total

Scores
# of Votes
130
Average Rating
6.6 out of 10
Metascore
NA
Popularity
NA