Watch Tall Tales and Legends - Pecos Bill

Tall Tales and Legends - Pecos Bill is a family-friendly Western film from 1986 that stars Steve Guttenberg as the iconic cowboy, Pecos Bill. The movie is part of the Tall Tales and Legends series, which features popular American folk tales brought to life on screen. The film begins with a young boy named Daniel listening to a storyteller spinning the tale of Pecos Bill. The legendary cowboy had been born to a pioneer family who, while traveling westward, accidentally left him behind. He was then adopted and raised by a pack of coyotes, and grew up with unmatched strength and skill on horseback. As an adult, he became known throughout the Old West for his incredible feats of strength and his love of adventure.

When the railroad threatens to destroy Pecos Bill's beloved Texas, he sets out to stop it by building a vast network of waterways that will irrigate the land and turn it into a fertile paradise. Along the way, he falls in love with a beautiful and feisty saloon owner named Slewfoot Sue (played by Rebecca De Mornay), who becomes his partner in his quest to tame the West.

However, Pecos Bill soon discovers that his biggest opponent is not the railroad company, but a dastardly bandit named Dirty Bob (played by Martin Mull) who will stop at nothing to steal Pecos Bill's land and ruin his plans. With the help of his trusty horse, Widowmaker, and his sharp-shooting skills, Pecos Bill fights to protect his homeland and his way of life.

The movie is filled with exciting action sequences, including a wild ride on a tornado and a showdown between Pecos Bill and Dirty Bob in a burning barn. But it's also a heartwarming story about the power of love, friendship, and perseverance. Guttenberg delivers a charming and charismatic performance as Pecos Bill, capturing the cowboy's larger-than-life personality and his unyielding spirit.

De Mornay is equally engaging as Slewfoot Sue, a strong-willed woman who refuses to be intimidated by anyone. Her chemistry with Guttenberg is palpable, and their banter and flirtation add a playful energy to the film. Mull is hilarious as Dirty Bob, who serves as the film's comic relief with his bumbling attempts to outsmart Pecos Bill.

The movie's production values are impressive, with stunning outdoor locations and impressive special effects. The tornado scene, in particular, is a technical marvel that still holds up today. The film's score, composed by longtime Disney composer Buddy Baker, is also a highlight, with memorable and catchy tunes that capture the film's adventurous spirit.

Overall, Tall Tales and Legends - Pecos Bill is a fun and entertaining Western adventure that will delight audiences of all ages. Its mix of action, humor, and romance make it a timeless classic that still holds up over 30 years later. If you're looking for a movie that will transport you to the wild days of the Old West, this is one you won't want to miss.

Tall Tales and Legends - Pecos Bill is a 1986 kids & family movie with a runtime of 49 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.