The Electric Horseman Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Drunk cowboy in a sparkly suit kidnaps a drugged horse and becomes a media darling, all while a sassy reporter falls for his questionable life choices.

🍿 The Electric Horseman: Detailed Plot Synopsis

A Rodeo Star’s Decline

Sonny Steele, a former five-time world rodeo champion, finds himself reduced to advertising Ranch Breakfast cereal, a product of the Ampco conglomerate. Dressed in an electric-lit cowboy suit, he’s paraded around, a far cry from his glory days. This corporate charade leaves him disillusioned, turning to alcohol to cope with his fading star and the compromises he’s made.

The Last Straw

During an Ampco event in Las Vegas, Sonny is to appear with Rising Star, a $12 million racehorse acquired by the company. Discovering the horse is being drugged to appear calmer and more presentable, Sonny draws a line. He may be willing to compromise his own dignity, but he won’t stand for the mistreatment of the animal.

Escape to Freedom

In a bold act of defiance, Sonny steals Rising Star and rides off into the desert. This sparks a media frenzy, with Ampco executives eager to quash the story, law enforcement in pursuit, and reporter Hallie Martin determined to get the scoop. Sonny’s motivations are simple: to return Rising Star to its natural habitat and reclaim a sense of purpose in his own life.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Sonny Steele (Robert Redford): A former rodeo star turned cereal spokesman who seeks redemption by freeing a mistreated racehorse.
• Hallie Martin (Jane Fonda): An ambitious reporter who initially pursues Sonny for a story but ultimately develops feelings for him and his cause.
• Hunt Sears (John Saxon): The ruthless corporate executive determined to protect his company’s image and recover the stolen horse.
• Wendell (Willie Nelson): Sonny’s loyal friend and manager who provides support and companionship during his journey.
• Rising Star (N/A): The champion racehorse whose mistreatment sparks Sonny’s rebellion and becomes a symbol of freedom.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Wendell: “I’m gonna get me a bottle of tequila and find me one of them Keno girls that can suck the chrome off a trailer hitch and just kinda kick back.” – Wendell expresses his desire to relax and unwind after a long journey.
• Sonny: “He’s one of the great animals…in the history…of animals.” – Sonny fumbles to express his feelings about the horse when Hallie finally gets him on camera.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $12,500,000
• Domestic Gross: $61,801,971
• Worldwide Gross: $61,801,971

💥 The Electric Horseman Reviews

Personal Review

I remember watching this as a kid and being completely swept away. Redford’s escape with the horse through Vegas was iconic! The whole movie just felt like a classic American fairytale, a modern cowboy taking a stand against corporate greed. I really enjoyed seeing the transformation of Jane Fonda’s character, from a cutthroat reporter to someone who actually cared. The ending still gets me, it’s so heartwarming when Sonny lets Rising Star run free.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Robert Redford and Jane Fonda.”
  • “Viewers interested in stories about cowboys and the American West.”
  • “Those who appreciate movies with themes of anti-corporate sentiment and animal welfare.”
  • “People who enjoy character-driven dramas with elements of romance.”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild language.”
  • “Brief scenes of alcohol consumption.”
  • “Themes of animal exploitation.”
  • “Some suggestive dialogue.”

Professional Reviews

• Collider.com: “A sober look at survival and change, this Sydney Pollack western is more than just a cowboy story. It tackles corporate greed and personal redemption, making it relevant even today. Redford and Fonda’s chemistry elevates the experience.
• FandomWire: “Jane Fonda revealed Robert Redford’s ‘issue with women’ during filming, adding an interesting layer to their on-screen dynamic. Despite any off-screen tension, their performances shine in this engaging film.

Audience Reactions

Redford’s performance as a disillusioned cowboy struck a chord with viewers.: Most viewers loved the blend of romance, drama, and social commentary.

The stunning scenery of the American West made the film visually captivating.: Many praised the chemistry between Redford and Fonda.

Overall Consensus: A charming blend of Western, romance, and social commentary, The Electric Horseman remains a beloved classic thanks to its charismatic leads and heartwarming message.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The horse ‘Rising Star’ was played by a 5-year-old thoroughbred named ‘Let’s Merge.’ Robert Redford bought the horse after filming and owned him for 18 years.”
• “Willie Nelson’s role was offered to him by Robert Redford during a chance meeting on an airplane.”
• “The film’s message revolves around commercialism, and the evils of using both people and animals for profit, with Robert Redford’s character seeking redemption.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Electric Horseman?

As of today, you can rent or purchase ‘The Electric Horseman’ on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your preferred streaming service for availability, as options may vary. Physical copies on DVD and Blu-ray are also available for purchase.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Electric Horseman, you might like these similar films:

• Lonely Are the Brave (1962): Similar theme of a cowboy resisting modern society and fighting for freedom in the face of encroaching civilization.
• Bronco Billy (1980): Explores the myth of the Wild West and how it influences American culture, with a focus on reinvention and freedom, released in the same era.
• The Horse Whisperer (1998): Deals with similar themes of healing and the connection between humans and horses in a contemporary setting.

🛒 The Electric Horseman Related Products

• The Electric Horseman [Blu-ray]: High-definition transfer with enhanced audio, providing the best viewing experience for this classic film. Features behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the cast and crew.
• Robert Redford: The Biography: An in-depth look at the life and career of Robert Redford, including his work in The Electric Horseman. Get insights into his acting process and his impact on Hollywood.
• Jane Fonda’s Workout Collection: Relive Jane Fonda’s fitness craze with this collection of workout videos. Stay in shape like a 70s Hollywood star.
• Wild West Adventure: Horse Riding Game: Immerse yourself in the Wild West with this open-world horse riding game. Explore vast landscapes, complete missions, and experience the freedom of the frontier. Available on multiple platforms.

🎧 Soundtrack

The Electric Horseman features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys” – performed by Willie Nelson
• “Midnight Rider” – performed by Willie Nelson
• “Disco Magic” – performed by Dave Grusin

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

My Heros Have Always Been Cowboys

Who doesn’t love this classic song? Listening to it again will make you want to watch the movie again!

✨ Rate