Cry Macho

This film is a slow burn, character story not an action packed flick. It's not perfect, and not one of Clint's best, but it's enjoyable and sweet. Yes, the film is predictable, the mom's character was unrealistic and a bit over-the-top (as were others), and there were some elements that were definitely far fetched/unrealistic, but we really enjoyed the heartwarming relationship that grows between the old, ex-rodeo rider, Mike Milo and the 13-year-old ornery, skeptical, neglected boy, Rafo; and the rooster added some fun and humor. It's a clean movie without language or nudity and a tender story at heart, IMHO! Sept2021.

I went to an early screening of the movie with high expectations since I'm a Clint Eastwood fan. The story seemed very promising and heartwarming and knowing Clint Eastwood I expected to cry my eyes out inside the theater. That's not what happened. At all. I almost fell asleep. The movies starts off pretty straight forward and the main story kicks of immediately. It continues to remain interesting for the first half hour but after that it seems like the screen writers had run out of ideas. The plot kinda stops and the only thing we are witnessing are Mike Mailo and Raffa hanging out. Nothing happens to move the plot forward. It's so forgettable that two days have passed and I'm struggling to remember what happened in order to write this review. The acting is also not good at all as Raff's lack of talent is obvious (Eastwood is great as always of course but unfortunately he is not alone in the movie). It's not a bad film but it's extremely unremarkable. You could save yourself some time and money by watching something else.

We recently watched The Mule and I was surprised Clint still had it in him to make a great film, but this one didn't reach the same level for me. Beautifully filmed, as all his movies are, but a predictable story with lame, and sometimes cringey, dialogue, and the kid was trying way too hard to act. Dwight Yoakam phoned in his part as well. The best acting was done by the rooster, honestly.

All in all, not unwatchable, but not one of his better ones.

I wanted to watch this since the first trailer aired online/TV. If you're a true Clint Eastwood fan, you will stay patient and let him tell you a story. As Clint gets up in age, his characters continue to reflect the depth of his experiences and decades on Earth. Those who were disappointed in this movie probably pined for the energetic "Dirty Harry" side of Clint Eastwood, which only exists in a past era. This is an easy, enjoyable watch about a cowboy beyond his prime who does a little soul searching while on a mission. If you go into it understanding that it isn't a Michael Bay action thriller, you will set more realistic expectations. As such, Clint Eastwood remains true to his western roots, his acting keeps up with performers half his age, and he always makes sure to spotlight new blood within the cast of his films. If you are open minded this movie is worth your time.

Cry Macho is a film with an old soul. Clearly, having Clint Eastwood (a 91 year old man) as both the protagonist and director contributes to that, but there is more to it. Everything about this production is slow and mellow, never getting too intense. The story is straightforward, small, and predictable. The editing is calm. The acting is gentle. Honestly, many viewers will find Cry Macho boring and they will have good reason. However, that doesn't make the movie bad.

In fact, Cry Macho is proficient from a technical perspective. Although it is rather passive, that is its goal. The story is of a tired, old cowboy who is somewhat defeated by life. It is fitting that the film would embody these resigned feelings. Add in apt themes addressing toxic masculinity and the result is concrete messaging. It's conventional and understated, but this film has its merits. Therefore, even though Cry Macho is certainly not a movie with wide appeal, it should be generally respected.

Writing: 6/10 Direction: 7/10 Cinematography: 7/10 Acting: 7/10 Editing: 8/10 Sound: 7/10 Score/Soundtrack: 7/10 Production Design: 8/10 Casting: 7/10 Effects: 6/10

Overall Score: 7.0/10.