Watch Unbranded

The show Unbranded is a documentary film released in 2015 that follows four college buddies as they journey on horseback for 3,000 miles from the Arizona desert to the Canadian border. The goal of their journey is to successfully lead a herd of wild mustangs that they adopt from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to their new home.

The film centers around the four riders - Ben Masters, Jonny Fitzsimons, Thomas Glover, and Ben Thamer - who set out to take on this grueling journey on horseback. The riders embark on this adventure not just for the thrill of it, but also with a purpose. They seek to raise awareness about the more than 50,000 wild horses that are currently in BLM holding pens. This mission is especially important to Ben Masters, who is a filmmaker and a conservationist.

The team sets off from Mexico on their journey north with 16 untrained mustangs provided by the BLM. The riders have to navigate through rough terrain, including steep cliffs, dense forests, and treacherous river crossings. The journey is not only physically challenging, but emotionally taxing as well. The riders learn to train and care for their horses along the way, often facing setbacks and challenges that test their patience and grit.

Throughout the journey, the riders meet and interact with many people who share their love for horses and the natural beauty of the American West. They also face challenges from those who oppose their mission or are skeptical of their motives. The riders have to overcome these difficulties as they make their way through states such as Utah, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.

Unbranded highlights the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation while also exploring the complex relationship between wild horses and humanity. The film also tackles the controversial issue of wild horse management in the United States. The riders witness firsthand the challenges of managing wild horse populations, and the difficulties of balancing the needs of wild horses with the needs of ranchers and other stakeholders who use public lands.

The cinematography in Unbranded is stunning, showcasing the vast open landscapes of the American West, and the majestic beauty of the wild mustangs they encounter along the way. The film is also an exploration of the bond between humans and horses, as the riders learn to trust and depend on their horses, and the horses learn to trust and bond with their riders.

Unbranded is a highly engaging and inspiring documentary film that explores the beauty of the American West, the importance of preservation and conservation, and the profound connection between humans and animals. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in adventure, western culture, and conservation.