Broke is a touching film that is likely to have all viewers looking back and analyzing the decisions they have made in the past.
Wyatt Russell and Dennis Quaid star in Broke, a Western that shines a light on Rodeo culture, and what struggles people who live the farm life go through. Things are not always sunshine in rainbows, this is a tough life. Both Quaid and Russell brilliantly bring this to the screen.
Russell plays True Brandywine, a bareback bronc rider who ends up trapped in a blizzard, fighting for his life. He finds himself reflecting on his life and the decisions that led him there. Dennis Quaid portrays his father. Whenever the two are on screen together, it is electric. Quaid has worked with Russell’s father in the past – Kurt Russell – so clearly the two know each other. This likely leads to a bit of the comfort that we see on screen. Either way, I would watch one hundred movies with the two of them starring, as they are a true joy to watch.
Some scenes are on the more difficult side to watch, especially because they will make you feel all the feels, and start to recollect on decisions you have made, including times when you were perhaps not very nice to those you love. Broke has a lot to say in its short runtime, which is elevated by the incredible, award-worthy performance from Wyatt Russell.
Not many people have the charisma that he has when it comes to creating characters that aren’t always nice, and yet you cannot help but root for them (much like John Walker in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, except True isn’t THAT bad).
Knowing that he did a lot of riding himself makes Russell’s performance that much more impressive. That is not an easy feat, and should be applauded. On top of that, he plays a man who continuously gets dealt a bad hand. From injuries to illnesses, everyone has their breaking point, and to watch Russell portray that in True is captivating.
Due to the nature of the film, there is a lot of jumping back and forth through time. That said, it is easy enough to figure out where exactly you are in the timeline of True’s life. We see him in the midst of his rodeo career, but also as he is doing everything he can to survive the blizzard. Viewers will also see the downfall of his career, as it starts to fade and he must reconsider what he wants to do with his life.
Dennis Quaid is a key part of several extremely emotional moments. He is a powerhouse actor, we all know this, so it always feels like something special when watching his work. It is his chemistry with Russell in this movie, however, that really shines.
Broke showcases the willpower that we have to live as humans, while being unafraid to show the dark thoughts we sometimes have as well. I would be lying if I didn’t admit that there were a few moments throughout the film that moved me to tears. I do not want to get into specifics, for fear of spoilers, but one of them was towards the very end – you will know exactly what I am talking about when you watch it.
Broke is touching, relatable, and not afraid to get dark when it needs to. One thing is for sure: you are probably going to want to call your loved ones after you finish watching it.
Be sure to check out our interview with Broke stars Wyatt Russell and Dennis Quaid to learn more about the film.
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About Broke
Broke is a contemporary western following the story of True Brandywine, a bareback bronc rider clinging to his fading rodeo career. When True gets trapped in a freak spring blizzard, he must battle injuries, illness, and the bitter cold. While fighting for his survival, True is forced to face his choices and the circumstances that led him to his tenuous situation.
