Exciting bull rider crime drama is unexpectedly moving

'Drive' is the haunting story of a Texas rodeo family facing impossible challenges. When their daughter's cancer returns, they are forced to make desperate decisions that blur the lines between good and evil. Featuring stunning performances by C. Thomas Howell and “Yellowstone” star Forrie J. Smith“Ride” is an emotional rollercoaster ride that will take your breath away.

Experience the raw beauty and toughness of rodeo, where bull riding becomes a metaphor for life's challenges. Ride is a testament to the enduring strength of family, the power of hope and the unwavering spirit of the American cowboy.

From the celebrated director Jake AllynRide is a must-see for fans of authentic storytelling, powerful performances and thrilling drama. Get ready for a cinematic experience that will touch your cold, dull movie heart.

“'Ride' is not strictly speaking a religious film. Ultimately, however, it seems more honest and moving than many other films that carry that label.”

– Joe Leydon, reviewer, Variety

RIDE's indie film struggle: Hollywood rejected him, America embraced him.

Bringing Ride to the screen was no easy feat, reflecting the characters' struggles with adversity. The film's writer, director and lead actor, Jake Allyn, faced an uphill battle against the Hollywood machine, a system often perceived as resistant to authentic American stories.

“Hollywood didn't want to support the film. I was constantly told the film was 'too American.'”

– Jake Allyn, RIDE film 2024, screenwriter, director and lead actor

Allyn spent eight long years developing the script, navigating a landscape where his vision was repeatedly dismissed as “too American.” The irony is palpable: a film that celebrates the heartland, its people and their values, was deemed unpalatable by the very industry that claims to represent American culture.

Undeterred, Allyn took matters into his own hands. He moved to Tennessee, secured a higher tax credit for the film, and partnered with Lonestar Rodeo and WELL GO USA, who understood and valued his vision. But even then, the road was fraught with challenges. Financing fell through just a month before shooting began, and Allyn was forced to break the devastating news to his cast and crew. But as a testament to the spirit of the film, no one gave up on the project. They rallied around Allyn, and their collective determination reflected the resilience of the characters they portrayed.

“'Ride' is a film full of themes, ideas and characters, but it works because it's made with the urgency that comes from a filmmaker who has to tell this story and put it on celluloid immediately or they'll go bankrupt.”

– Marya E. Gates, reviewer, RogerEbert.com

The making of Ride is a microcosm of the film itself: a testament to the enduring power of the American spirit, the unwavering belief in a dream and the triumph of authenticity over constructed narratives. It's a story that will resonate with viewers who crave real stories that reflect their values ​​and experiences – stories that Hollywood too often overlooks.

“Allyn's ambitious, gritty drama delivers uncompromising Texas toughness in every scene, and as actor, co-writer and director, he captivates us on all fronts for nearly two hours.”

—Randy Myers, reviewer, San Jose Mercury News

Jake Allyn, C. Thomas Howell, Forrie J. Smith and Annabeth Gish deliver outstanding performances

C. Thomas Howell delivers a truly remarkable performance as John Hawkins, the stoic cowboy father at the center of “Ride.” He embodies the raw determination and quiet desperation of a man driven to the brink and fighting for his daughter's life. Howell's portrayal is so authentic and emotionally raw that you'll hold your breath with him as he faces impossible choices. The storyline between the bull-riding father and his son, played by Howell and Jake Allyn, draws directly from Howell's own life experiences living with his bull-riding father on the rodeo circuit.

Forrie J. Smithknown for his role as Lloyd in Yellowstone, brings a similar level of authenticity to his portrayal of grandfather Al. Smith's decades of experience as a real cowboy shine through, adding depth and dignity to his portrayal of a man wrestling with faith and family. Critics praise Smith's ability to convey both wisdom and vulnerability, making Al a truly compelling character.

Jake Allyn shines as Peter, the troubled son searching for redemption. Allyn's performance is a revelation, capturing the complexity of a young man battling addiction and his tormenting past. You'll be captivated by Peter's journey and cheer him on every step of the way, even as he stumbles and makes mistakes.

Annabeth Gish may have a less prominent role, but her portrayal of Monica is equally impressive. With subtle gestures and nuanced expressions, Gish conveys a depth of inner turmoil and moral conflict that speaks volumes. Her portrayal of a mother and law enforcement officer torn between duty and love is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Hi, my name is Aaron Kuhl. I am a native Arizonan from Tempe, Arizona. The Western lifestyle has been ingrained in my life since day one as my mother worked for Wrangler Western for over 30 years while I was growing up. I am proud to have been a part of the Cowboy Lifestyle Network since the company's inception after graduating from the University of Arizona. My faith, family and friends are my entire world and I am very blessed to live the life I do in the land of the free, the United States of America.