Born Wild

Born Wild is a thrilling contemporary Western drama movie released in 2012, featuring renowned actors Barry Corbin, Joe Lando, and William Shockley. Directed by Dustin Rikert, the film enthralls viewers with its compelling narrative and picturesque western backdrop, forging an alluring combination that appeals to both die-hard Western fans and general drama-seeking audiences.

The storyline unwraps the life of Chris “CJ” Jennings (Played by Lando), a troubled ex-Rodeo champion who returns to his hometown after being absent for many years. Having been struggling to reconcile his troubled past, CJ’s sudden reemergence injects tension and uncertainty into the small, typically peaceful town. His arrival does not go unnoticed, especially by his brother Art (Conveyed by the talented Shockley), who harbors a bottled-up resentment towards CJ as he blames him for a family tragedy.

Lando's portrayal of CJ illuminally breathes life into the character, prompting audiences to see beneath the skin of this former rodeo champion. Lando masterfully shows CJ's struggles, his search for redemption, and his desire to mend his familial bonds. The character of CJ acts as a magnet, drawing viewers deeper and deeper into his life and the complexities that come with it.

Art, brought to life by William Shockley, is a conflicted character caught in the tangles of past grievances and the need to forgive for future peace. Shockley commendably exhibits Art's internal conflict, creating a captivating tug-of-war of emotions on screen. Barry Corbin, portraying the local Sheriff, further enriches the cast, displaying seasoned delivery of the role while adding a layer of depth to the storyline.

The film's western setting helps in amplifying the raw emotions and turmoil that permeates through its characters and story. Being staged in a rural, picturesque landscape, the movie demonstrates striking cinematography, highlighting the beautiful yet unforgiving western world as a secondary character of sorts. The shots of the open range, rustic buildings, and wide skies effectively transport the viewers into a whole other time and place while accenting the rocky ride of the characters.

The well-developed story, directed by Rikert, is padded with underlying themes of love, redemption, reconciliation, and family. Born Wild's screenplay sensitively deals with the destructive impact of harboring anger and guilt, the power of forgiveness, and the importance of family. It is an emotionally charged film where every scene poses as a pathway to deeper introspective thinking, allowing viewers to put themselves into the shoes of the protagonists and live their often-tough journey.

Despite the thematic heaviness, the movie balances its emotional depth with light-hearted moments and smatterings of humor, providing viewers with many organic breaks and ensuring an overall entertaining and engaging watch. These bouts of laughter within the drama blend seamlessly with the major themes and narrative, adding a necessary lightness to the intricate social fabric of the story.

Top-notch performances by a seasoned cast nestled within an engaging storyline make "Born Wild" an enjoyable film for a broad audience. The intensity of the character's journey, commitment to the role, and the film's ability to hold the audience's attention from start to finish testify to the movie's overall high-quality production value.

In conclusion, Born Wild successfully delivers a captivating story that resonates with viewers and creates a lasting impact. With its bend of scenery, drama, and interpersonal dynamics, it stands as a memorable addition to the Western Drama genre. For those who appreciate character-driven stories with raw emotion, insightful themes, and stellar performances, Born Wild is more than just a film; it's a cinematic journey through the struggles and triumphs of life.