Watch Running Wild: The Life of Dayton O. Hyde

Running Wild: The Life of Dayton O. Hyde is a compelling documentary about the life of Dayton Hyde, a cowboy philosopher, and conservationist who dedicated his life to preserving and protecting the American West. The film chronicles the extraordinary journey of this remarkable man from his roots in rural Michigan to the Black Hills of South Dakota, where he found his calling as a rancher and conservationist.

The movie opens with a series of breathtaking shots of the Black Hills, set against the backdrop of a soaring score. We are introduced to Dayton Hyde, a rugged, weathered cowboy in his eighties, who exudes a quiet authority and wisdom born of a lifetime of hard work and experience. As the story unfolds, we learn about the many twists and turns that led Dayton to this place, and the many challenges he faced along the way.

Born in the Great Depression, Dayton grew up in rural Michigan, where he developed a love of the outdoors and a deep respect for the land. After serving in the Navy during World War II, he settled in California, where he worked as a screenwriter and a successful horse trainer. However, he soon grew restless and yearned for a more meaningful life, so he moved to South Dakota and bought a ranch in the Black Hills.

At first, Dayton struggled to make a living in the harsh, unforgiving terrain of the West. He battled fierce blizzards, wildfires, and droughts, often relying on little more than his wits and his love for his land and animals. However, he never wavered in his commitment to his vision of creating a sanctuary for the wild mustangs and other animals that roamed the Plains.

Over time, Dayton's ranch became a haven not only for wild horses but for other threatened and endangered species, such as the swift fox, the black-footed ferret, and the sage grouse. His journey took him from the halls of power in Washington, D.C., where he lobbied for stronger protections for wildlife, to the front lines of bloody battles over land use and grazing rights.

Through it all, Dayton remained steadfastly optimistic, even in the face of immense challenges and setbacks. The film captures his infectious enthusiasm and warmth, as he shares his stories and wisdom with friends and strangers alike. Whether he is teaching a group of schoolchildren about the importance of conservation or sharing a meal with old friends, Dayton's love for life and his fellow humans shines through.

Running Wild: The Life of Dayton O. Hyde is a masterful portrait of a man who lived a life of passion and purpose. The film is a celebration of the power of one individual to make a difference, and an inspiring reminder of the urgent need to protect our fragile planet and the creatures that call it home. With stunning cinematography, a moving musical score, and a host of unforgettable characters, this documentary is a must-see for anyone who cares about the environment, wildlife, and human values.

Running Wild: The Life of Dayton O. Hyde is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6 and a MetaScore of 74.