Cry Macho Blu-ray Review
“Cry Macho” sticks with you.
Based on the novel by N. Richard Nash (who also co-wrote the screenplay alongside Nick Schenk), “Cry Macho” revolves around a former rodeo star (Mike) with a dark past. His former boss (Howard) hires him to find his son Rafo who resides in Mexico City with his ex-wife Leta. Rafo is a bit of a troublemaker who indulges in cockfighting with his rooster Macho. Mike journeys to Mexico City, but the seemingly simple trip is easier said than done as Leta doesn’t want Rafo to leave (she even sends men to reclaim him), Mike’s truck is stolen, among other dangers. Along the way, Mike finds his life going into unexpected directions as he potentially finds love and becomes a sort of father figure to Rafo.
It remains to be seen if this will be the 91 year old Clint Eastwood’s last acting performance and or directed work, but if it is, it feels like a farewell. There’s a bit of a personal and retrospective vibe to the film as it delves into themes about aging, loss, being yourself, choices, rediscovering life, and beginning a new chapter. Thematically, the movie has its heart in the right place and the ending really sticks with you. Eastwood, who has made a career playing tough guys, shows a different side here and it’s really effective in that regard. He may look a little frail and is a bit shaky acting wise in a few spots, but the veteran actor still has the acting chops to pull off the role.
Where “Cry Macho” falters a bit is with the actual plot. The story is basic and harkens back to previous Eastwood work. It also feels rather slight and not remotely subtle. You’re left wanting something more substantial from the story. At the same time, the themes and intimate character moments are emotional and the exploration of the post-western era also feels like Eastwood paying homage to his past. Basically, it has its ups and downs.
I mentioned Eastwood delivering a quality performance, but Eduardo Minett as Rafo is equally memorable here. He has particularly great chemistry with Eastwood as well. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him pop up in more films.
Video/Audio:
Presentation: 2.39:1 1080p. How does it look? Expect a crisp hi-def transfer.
Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? The 5.1 track does the job.
Extras include a Digital copy, a 12 minute featurette “Back In The Saddle: The Making Of Cry Macho” with film clips, interviews, discussions about the project and production, and “Macho And The Mustangs” which covers horse sequences in the film.
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