I don't give tens very often because, in my opinion, very few films hit every mark. This one is an awesome exception. The Cowboy, written and starring Peter Banifaz and brilliantly directed by Omid Shabkhiz, hits every single nail right on the head and drives it home. From the opening shot, immaculately photographed by Alex Pollini, you have the distinct feeling that you're watching a Rodriguez or Tarantino film with a budget behind it. No expense or effort was spared. Productions values are first rate. Every little detail is considered and taken care of. They even thought to include bullets in the revolvers. If I had a dollar for every time I've seen a shot of an empty revolver aimed at a camera I could fund my own movie. The script, particularly the dialog, is...dare I say, elegant. Every word from every character is totally real and believable. Looking into the resumes of all involved I expected to see long lists of credits, major well known works with their names on them, and big name talent agencies attached to them. I was surprised to find that this wasn't true. This whole project seems to be the product of a mass of underrated talent. This little short film will go down on my list of the best movies I've ever seen.
