Neal McDonough strides through “The Last Rodeo” as Joe Wainwright, a former champion bull rider who’s believably broken in body and spirit. Ever since the death of his wife ten years earlier, Joe has retired to his Texas ranch to lick his wounds and nurse his regrets, including a broken neck sustained while riding drunk—an injury that derailed both his own life and that of his daughter, played by Sarah Jones. The plot thickens when Joe’s young grandson develops a brain tumor.
Desperate to pay for the boy’s treatment and make amends for his indifferent parenting, Joe discovers a bull-riding tournament with a million-dollar prize taking place this very weekend in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Despite his aching knees and weary spirit, Joe sees an opportunity for redemption.
Joe’s redemption journey
Directed by Jon Avnet, who co-wrote the script with McDonough and Derek Presley, “The Last Rodeo” proceeds with easeful predictability. The story’s conventional beats, such as the get-back-in-shape montage and critical moments of bad news, contribute to a wholesome journey of long-delayed healing. Adding depth to the narrative is Mykelti Williamson as Joe’s longtime friend and rodeo partner, injecting a buddy-movie vibe that anchors the action in smoothly thrilling riding bouts.
The film keeps its religious undertones minimal, featuring subtle elements like a crucifix here and a mass prayer there. “The Last Rodeo” concludes with McDonough’s earnest plea encouraging viewers to purchase tickets for others to see the film. This strategy aims to get more people into theaters, a goal worth supporting.
