Cry Macho

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.

You have to be a die hard fan of Clint Eastwood, very very die hard buff of this icon of the movie industry to really appreciate this film where there is no surprise at all, unless you have never seen a movie with Eastwood as an actor. The directing and acting, of course, as usual with him, are flawless, I would say awesome, but sooo predictable. You can also see it as a kind of testament feature, as if he knew that it would be his last performance, at the age of 91. A kind of summary of his life and career. Some poignant moments between him and the young boy, no one could deny it. But for me it remains a film with, for and only about Eastwood. I will never say it's a bad film, no, but that's exactly what I was afraid of. Because I have never liked this actor, nearly always the same kinds of characters; ALWAYS. But he is a legend, a myth of the movie history. And an awesome director too, gifted, sensitive, unique.

So listen, this isn't The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly. There aren't a lot of gun fights or bar fights. It's just simple tender storytelling. And that's enough for me.

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 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.