Watch Rancho Deluxe

Rancho Deluxe is a 1975 Western comedy film directed by Frank Perry and starring Jeff Bridges, Sam Waterston, Elizabeth Ashley, and Clifton James. The film was produced by Elliot Kastner and released by United Artists. Set in Montana, the story follows two modern-day cowboys, Jack McKee (Jeff Bridges) and Cecil Colson (Sam Waterston), who spend their days rustling cattle and living the laidback life. However, their fun-loving ways catch up with them when a wealthy cattle baron, John Brown (Clifton James), hires a detective (Harry Dean Stanton) to investigate the thefts.

Jack and Cecil are unaware of the investigation and carry on as usual, spending their time drinking, playing practical jokes, and romancing local women. Meanwhile, John Brown's daughter, Burt (Elizabeth Ashley), arrives in Montana to try and manage her father's ranch. She is immediately drawn to Jack and the two begin a romantic relationship.

As the investigation heats up, Jack and Cecil start to feel the pressure, and their friendship begins to unravel. Meanwhile, Burt discovers the truth about Jack's illegal activities and must decide whether to turn him in or keep his secret.

Rancho Deluxe is a humorous look at the modern cowboy, poking fun at both the romanticized image of the old West and the modern-day equivalent. The film offers a unique blend of comedy, drama, and romance, providing a satisfying and entertaining cinematic experience.

Jeff Bridges gives a standout performance as Jack, exuding a carefree charm and laidback attitude that makes him both endearing and frustrating. Sam Waterston is equally impressive as Cecil, bringing a dry wit and humor to his role as Jack's sidekick. Elizabeth Ashley is also excellent as the conflicted Burt, torn between her attraction to Jack and her sense of duty to her father.

The film's supporting cast is equally strong, with Clifton James delivering a memorable turn as the overbearing John Brown and Harry Dean Stanton providing some memorable comic relief as the detective hired to catch Jack and Cecil.

Director Frank Perry demonstrates a wonderful sense of tone, balancing the film's various elements with ease, and capturing the beauty of the Montana landscape. The film's screenplay, by Thomas McGuane, is sharp and witty, providing plenty of laughs while never losing sight of the story's more dramatic moments.

Despite its relative obscurity, Rancho Deluxe remains a cult favorite among fans of Westerns and offbeat comedies. The film's unique blend of humor, drama, and romance makes it a standout in the genre, and its talented cast and crew ensure a memorable cinematic experience.

Rancho Deluxe is a 1975 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.