Neal McDonough Stars in Heartfelt Drama The Last Rodeo

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Neal McDonough leads a strong cast in the new film, The Last Rodeo, which tells the heartfelt story of a retired bull rider struggling to save his grandson.

In the movie, Joe Wainwright, played by McDonough, faces a personal crisis when his grandson is diagnosed with a brain tumor. The film highlights Joe’s desperate decision to return to bull riding to win a high-stakes competition offering a grand prize of $750,000. This amount is crucial to cover medical expenses that insurance will not.

Joe’s journey back to the rodeo is not just about the money, but also about confronting his painful past. Years earlier, a near-fatal accident in the ring left him paralyzed and affected his relationships, particularly with his daughter, played by Sarah Jones.

Joe’s manager, Charlie, played by Mykelti Williamson, adds depth to the film as a fellow veteran who shares a strong bond with Joe. Their camaraderie showcases faith-based themes relevant to their entwined destinies.

Directed by Jon Avnet, known for films like Fried Green Tomatoes and Black Swan, The Last Rodeo emphasizes character-driven storytelling and smooth cinematography. Viewers get a firsthand experience of the high-stakes bull riding through the use of POV and handheld camera techniques.

The film’s treatment of faith is subtle and avoids heavy-handedness, which some viewers may appreciate. While it touches on Joe’s struggles with belief during tough times, it does not dwell extensively on religious themes.

If audiences are looking for a gritty, faith-tinged film with emotional depth, The Last Rodeo may prove to be a rewarding experience.