There is a good story here, though by the end we wonder exactly how it will be resolved. Will there be more? No, that's where it ends. We are left to wonder what happened next.
There are no easy solutions, but over time, it appears progress is being made, even with many obstacles. The story could have been told differently, with a more inspirational message, but this is what someone chose to do. We want to see everyone's lives get better. What we mostly see is small victories. Life is hard for everyone and that's just how it's going to be.
Most of the acting is really good. The African American characters seem realistic, with a way of speaking that seems authentic but not racist.
The bull riding looks dangerous.
Rob Morgan is really good, sometimes compassionate, sometimes demanding, sometimes quite angry. But his character has a hard life and he just keeps pushing, with alcohol and prescription drugs to help. At least I think he is using legal drugs, legally. And maybe he has faith (crosses are painted on his cheeks at events, and a cross is on his wall). However, he is never really a loser or a bum. If he's in pain, he just has to do what is needed to keep going. And he at least starts the process of turning a young girl into a bull rider.
Amber Havard is good but not great. She's an ordinary girl rather than an inspiration, and that's fine. We've all seen plenty of inspiring stories. This film is more about a relationship that develops, and she does a capable job of showing that.
Troy Anthony Hogan reminds me of someone, but mostly he just seems real. I'm not really sure what his job is. People like his food and young bull riders train at his place.
Sara Allbright, as a prisoner, is always smiling, no matter what, and seems determined to succeed, but like everyone else, she must face obstacles.
Steven Boyd isn't really a bad guy, but just someone who has to do what is needed to get by. Maybe some won't like what he does (I can probably say it's illegal) but he is nice enough. Not quite a stereotype.
Family friendly? A lot of words were missing. Abe drinks. The grandmother is bitter and uncaring. Drugs are used in a few scenes. Most drug use, however, seems legal and justified. There is a Christian message at times but it's pretty much limited to what I will call Black rodeo, smaller events which are not the ones that make Abe his real money.
If you're looking for excitement, there is some from time to time. But maybe it's better not to expect too much, and just be pleased with what is accomplished.
