New Angels Studios film The Last Rodeo hits theaters just in time for summer. Starring Neal McDonough (The Shift, Homestead), The Last Rodeo tells the story of a retired bull rider who ventures back into the game to win enough money to pay for lifesaving surgery for his grandson, Cody. 

The film harkens back to a less franchise-driven Hollywood. It would be easy to see a movie like this finding an audience in the 1980s or 1990s, even if it were on home video after its theatrical run. McDonough carries the film well as lead Joe Wainwright. Wainwright’s dedication to his grandson is palpable, as is his mastery over his craft. Bull riding has a lot of controversy surrounding it, both due to its dangers to riders and the animals involved. While its dangers drive a good deal of the film’s tension, the sport surrounding it also takes center stage.

The film functions as a fusion of a standard family drama and a sports film, although I would argue that the former serves, to some extent, as the motivation for the latter. Consequently, it sometimes feels like Cody's illness and the financial strain it causes take a back seat. I think there was a bit of a missed opportunity to have more discussion about the burden medical costs can place on low-income families. Those very real problems that families across America have to contend with often feel glossed over, mainly used to drive Wainwright’s return to the ring.

Cody's illness appears to be more of a catalyst for getting Wainwright back on a bull rather than a thematic exploration of the threat that a serious illness poses to a child. Still, the film is undeniably exciting. The dangers of the rodeo are always at the forefront, and the tension consistently leaves you wondering whether the movie will eventually veer into tragedy. 

The faith aspects that are characteristic of Angel Studio films remain present, but they should not become overly prominent as a driving force. Wainwright is a man who has suffered many losses in his life. It’s fair to say the bulk of the film finds him on the outs with God, even though his arc includes rectifying that detail. The main focus of the story is the rodeo and Cody’s illness. Non-religious viewers can still derive a great deal from this narrative. 

Overall, this is a solid family outing that manages to bring the tension while keeping the content in check. While younger viewers might be frightened by the portrayal of childhood illness and the life-threatening nature of the rodeo, there’s little in the way of genuine adult content concerns for parents to be fearful of. Mykelti Williamson (of Forrest Gump fame) and Sarah Jones turn in notable supporting performances as well. 

For those who long for the classic Hollywood of the past, this film is sure to be a delight. It’s a family movie that offers heart and tension without the overly glamorous elements typically found in franchise films. While there are some missed opportunities in the storytelling, it's clear that families can relax and enjoy this straightforward and rewarding story, which is filled with valuable morals and engaging performances.