Watch Cry Macho

Cry Macho is an American neo-Western drama film directed and produced by Clint Eastwood. The film is based on the 1975 novel of the same name written by N. Richard Nash. It features Clint Eastwood in the lead role of Mike Milo, a former rodeo star and horse breeder who is asked by his ex-boss, Howard Polk (Dwight Yoakam), to retrieve his son, Rafo (Eduardo Minett), from his mother in Mexico and bring him back to Texas.

Set in the early 1980s, the movie follows Mike, who is struggling with alcoholism and an injury that keeps him from riding horses. With no other prospects, he reluctantly agrees to help Howard, who he despises. Mike travels to Mexico to find Rafo, who is being raised by his grandmother. Along the way, Mike discovers that Rafo is a sensitive soul who wants to escape the stifling environment of his small town and go to Texas to live with his father. However, their journey is complicated by cultural differences and the fact that they are being pursued by the Mexican police and Howard's goons.

The movie explores themes of redemption, second chances, and the bonds between father and son. The relationship between Mike and Rafo is at the heart of the story, as the two men find common ground despite their differences. Mike, who has had a troubled past, sees a chance to right his wrongs by helping Rafo and making amends with Howard. Rafo, on the other hand, learns from Mike what it means to be a man and the importance of standing up for oneself.

Clint Eastwood's performance as Mike is understated and nuanced. He portrays the character as a man of few words who is haunted by his past and trying to make sense of his present. However, underneath the tough exterior, there is a vulnerability that makes the audience root for him. Eduardo Minett, who plays Rafo, is a revelation. He brings a naturalness and innocence to the role that makes him a perfect foil to Eastwood's gruff persona.

The supporting cast, which includes Dwight Yoakam and Natalia Traven as Rafo's mother, Lupe, are also solid. Yoakam, who has played villainous roles before, is a standout as Howard, making him both despicable and pitiable. Traven, who doesn't have much screen time, manages to convey Lupe's pain and desperation convincingly.

The film is beautifully shot by frequent Eastwood collaborator, Ben Davis. The Mexican landscape, with its rugged terrain and vibrant colors, is captured in all its glory. The cinematography, combined with the atmospheric score by Mark Mancina, gives the movie a melancholic yet romantic tone.

One of the strengths of Cry Macho is its pacing. The movie takes its time to unfold, allowing the characters' relationships to develop organically. The road trip aspect of the story gives director Eastwood ample opportunity to showcase the beauty of Mexico and the bond between Mike and Rafo.

Overall, Cry Macho is a solid entry in Clint Eastwood's filmography. It may not be his best work, but it is a poignant and heartfelt drama that showcases the acting talents of both the veteran performer and his young co-star. The movie is a tribute to the Western genre and a reminder that sometimes the simplest stories can be the most impactful.

Cry Macho is a 2021 drama. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7 and a MetaScore of 58.