Watch Fire on the Mountain

Fire on the Mountain is a riveting 1981 drama that tells the story of a legendary cowboy, Booger Red (Buddy Ebsen), who at the age of 99, was still herding cattle on a remote Texas ranch. The film is based on the true-life story of Booger Red, but it is also a meditation on the passing of an era, as well as a tribute to the human spirit.

The movie is set in the 1970s, and it follows the journey of a young journalist, Roy (Ron Howard), who wants to write a book about Booger Red. Roy is fascinated by Booger's colorful past, which includes a stint in the rodeo, as well as feats of bravery and compassion during his long life on the range.

As Roy gets to know Booger Red, he also learns about the harsh realities of life on the ranch, including droughts, cattle rustlers, and rattlesnakes. He witnesses firsthand the bond between Booger and his beloved horse, Rusty, as well as the camaraderie between Booger and his fellow cowboys.

The movie also explores the theme of aging, as Booger Red comes to terms with his mortality and the fact that he may be the last of his kind. He reflects on his life, his mistakes, and his regrets, but also on his triumphs and his unwavering love for the land and the animals that have sustained him.

In addition to Buddy Ebsen's nuanced performance as Booger Red, the movie also features strong performances from Ron Howard as the curious journalist, and Julie Carmen as an enigmatic cowgirl who captures Roy's imagination.

The cinematography is breathtaking, with sweeping shots of the rugged Texas landscape, and intimate close-ups of the characters as they navigate their emotional terrain. The scenes featuring the cattle drive are particularly exhilarating, with the thundering hooves and dust clouds evoking the thrill and danger of the Old West.

What sets Fire on the Mountain apart from other Westerns is its focus on character development and emotional depth. While there is plenty of action and adventure to satisfy fans of the genre, the heart of the movie lies in the relationship between Booger Red and Roy, and in their shared journey toward self-discovery.

Overall, Fire on the Mountain is a poignant and powerful film that pays homage to a bygone era and the indomitable spirit of the human and animal characters who inhabited it. It is a must-see for anyone who loves Westerns, or who appreciates a good story well told.

Fire on the Mountain is a 1981 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.