Netflix Gems: Concrete Cowboy

Films are meant to capture a moment in history where emotions were high. It is what makes the audience want to discuss the themes of the movie long after leaving the cinema or turning off their at home entertainment units. Concrete Cowboys is yet another shining example of how Netflix just keeps releasing gem upon gem.

Starring Idris Elba and Caleb McLaughlin as father and son it tells the story of the Fletcher Street stables, an inner city group of men and women are determined to train and ride horses. While Cole is coming from a life of bad decisions in his home of Detroit he is sent to Philly to live with his estranged father.

It immediately jumps right into the heavy handed themes with Cole having no discipline and immediately turning to street life to fill his desire of being someone. Cole does not feel like he has a family and while those tropes have been explored before its very seldom done so with being presented with an immediate alternative to the bad choices. Cole has a makeshift family with the Cowboys even though he choses to ignore it. They know what city life is and are trying to have him avoid some of the same mistakes they did.

Elba is truly at his best when he is in roles like this. It truly allows him to show pain and regret that is not immediately replaced with guns and explosions to try and offset that. He has a raw talent very few have and that is on full display in this film especially as the tensions begin to mount.

Loss, acceptance and finding your path in life are things people struggle with in life and especially those who are forced to make their own home. It is about trying to steer yourself towards an end goal that ends the cycle of violence so many find themselves caught up in. Purpose is a big thing in this world. Feeling like you belong is another and this movie shows us what loyalty and finding your place can do for a person who feels like they have absolutely nothing else.

I don't think there is any other place aside from Netflix where a movie like this could exist. A film with heart that is always on full display and characters who have flaws and are imperfect. It's them navigating the highs and lows of life. The escalating conflict ends in a way you don't see coming and it is very real world the way it unfolds. Its all for the love of the animals and that's the best story they could tell. A love story between the people of Philly and their horses.

It is triumphant in the way it delivers the messages of family and friendship even if a bit cliché on the delivery. It makes up for all of the tropes with fantastic imagery and amazing performances from Elba and McLaughin who is going to be a major star in his own right. Anyone who can stand their ground against Elba has the makings to do big things. This is only the beginning for the young star and I can't wait to see where his career goes next.

Concrete Cowboys is a must see for anyone who loves animals and the human spirit that can't be broken when a bond is made between the two. A spectacular movie thanks to Netflix taking chances on these real life stories with courage and heart. I wish there were more films like this. Willing to tell brilliant stories and capture the heart and soul of those who always stand for whats right.