Perhaps Billy Bob Thornton, director of "All the Pretty Horses," should simply not have to do with horse movies. According to most reviews, even the star power of lead Matt Damon can't get this horse out of the starting gate.
The movie has much going for it. It is adapted from Cormac McCarthy's best selling 1992 novel, of the same name, and McCarthy is one of the screen writers, along with Ted Tally. And it is produced be the talented Mike Nichols.
Yet, it seems to be lacking punch, background specifically. The movie was cut by about 45 minutes, much to Thornton's dismay. This may account for many of reviewers' comments about gaps in the plot.
It is 1949 Texas, and John Grady Cole (Damon) and his buddy Lacey Rawlins (Henry Thomas), after an unfortunate adventure on the old homestead, decide to strike out for the wild west and adventure.
On the trail, the pair meet Jimmy Blevins ( Lucas Black who played the kid in "Sling Blade").
Blevins, a "bad news kid," talks the cowboys to coming to Mexico with him. Black's portrayal of Blevins receives better reviews than Damon's.
On to Mexico where the pair find work as wranglers on a rich man's (Reuben Blades) ranch. Before you can swallow a tortilla, Cole is smitten by the spicy charms of the owner's daughter Alejandra ( Penelope Cruz). The ensuing plot trail is encumbered by spotty direction and dialogue. According to one reviewer, screen writer Tally "heaves chunks of dialogue from the page like clods of earth."
Still, with all those stars, including the European star Cruz, and all the brilliant scenery, it's probably a fun way to spend two hours or so munching on popcorn. It is rated PG-13 for violence and some sexuality.
It starts Thursday at Market Square East.
