Watch When the Legends Die
- PG
- 1972
- 1 hr 47 min
-
6.4 (546)
When the Legends Die is a 1972 American western drama film based on the novel of the same name written by Hal Borland. The movie stars Richard Widmark, Frederic Forrest, and Luana Anders in lead roles. The movie tells the story of Tom Black Bull (played by Frederic Forrest), a young Native American boy who lives with his parents in Colorado. Tom is the son of a rodeo rider and his mother is a full-blooded Ute woman. His father is abusive towards him and his mother, and after his mother dies, Tom runs away from home.
Tom is taken in by a rodeo promoter who sees his potential as a rodeo rider. Tom learns quickly and becomes one of the best rodeo riders in the country. However, he is conflicted by the loss of his Native American identity and his desire to succeed in the white man's world. He is also haunted by the memory of his father and the abuse he suffered at his hands.
The movie then follows Tom as he struggles to come to terms with his identity and his place in the world. He tries to reconnect with his Native American heritage, but finds it difficult to reconcile with the demands of the rodeo world. He falls in love with a white woman (played by Luana Anders), which further complicates his identity crisis.
Richard Widmark plays Red Dillon, a veteran rodeo rider who takes Tom under his wing. Red is a gruff and cynical mentor, but he sees potential in Tom and guides him through the world of rodeo riding. Red tries to teach Tom the skills he needs to succeed, but he also sees the pain and conflict that Tom is experiencing.
The movie is a poignant and moving portrayal of identity, culture, and the struggle to find one's place in the world. It is a powerful drama that deals with complex issues, such as cultural assimilation, racism, and the relationship between tradition and modernity.
The performances in the movie are top-notch, with Frederic Forrest delivering a standout performance as Tom Black Bull. He perfectly captures the pain and confusion of a young man torn between two worlds. Richard Widmark is also excellent as Red Dillon, bringing a depth and complexity to his character that elevates the film.
The cinematography is stunning, capturing the vast landscapes of the American West with breathtaking beauty. The rodeo scenes are also expertly filmed, giving the audience a sense of the thrill and danger of the sport.
Overall, When the Legends Die is a powerful and thought-provoking movie that explores complex issues with nuance and sensitivity. It is a moving drama that will resonate with audiences long after the credits have rolled.