Watch The Cowboys

In the classic Western film, The Cowboys, legendary actor John Wayne stars as rancher Wil Andersen, who finds himself in a tough spot when his cattle hands abandon him during the busiest time of the year. With no one else to turn to, he decides to recruit a group of teenage boys to help him drive his herd across hundreds of miles of dangerous terrain.

The unlikely group of boys, who have no experience working on a ranch, are initially hesitant to take on such a daunting task. But they soon realize the enormity of the situation they are in and set out to make the best of it. Together, they face countless trials and tribulations, from hostile outlaws to rough terrain, in their quest to help Andersen get his cattle to market before it's too late.

The Cowboys is a coming-of-age story at its heart, with the boys learning important life lessons along the way. But it's also a classic Western with plenty of action, gunfights, and horseback riding to satisfy fans of the genre. And of course, John Wayne delivers a powerful performance as the tough-as-nails rancher who harbors a soft spot for his unexpected new recruits.

One of the film's standout performances comes from Roscoe Lee Browne, who plays a Lincoln-loving cook named Jebediah Nightlinger. Nightlinger adds an interesting dynamic to the group, bringing a sense of wisdom and humor to the boys' journey. Another standout performance comes from Bruce Dern, who plays a dangerous outlaw named Long Hair. Dern's portrayal of Long Hair is both chilling and captivating, making him a formidable foe for the boys and Andersen alike.

One of the most impressive aspects of The Cowboys is the breathtaking scenery captured on film. Director Mark Rydell utilized the stunning vistas of New Mexico and Colorado to full effect, showcasing the beauty and danger of the Wild West. The film's score, composed by John Williams, is also notable for its poignant themes and stirring orchestration.

Overall, The Cowboys is a classic Western that has stood the test of time. Its themes of camaraderie, loyalty, and bravery are just as relevant today as they were when the film was first released in 1972. And with John Wayne leading the charge, it's impossible not to be captivated by this thrilling and emotional tale of the American West.

The Cowboys is a 1972 western with a runtime of 2 hours and 11 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4 and a MetaScore of 52.