Watch Even Cowgirls Get the Blues

Even Cowgirls Get the Blues is a 1993 comedy-drama film directed by Gus Van Sant and based on the novel of the same name by Tom Robbins. The movie stars Uma Thurman as Sissy Hankshaw, a young woman with abnormally large thumbs that she considers to be her best feature. Sissy hitchhikes her way around the country, eventually finding herself at the Rubber Rose Ranch, a ranch for cowgirls run by the eccentric Madame Zoe (played by Lorraine Bracco). At the ranch, Sissy meets a group of colorful characters, including cowgirls Bonanza Jellybean (played by Rain Phoenix) and Cherokee Irwin (played by Keanu Reeves). Bonanza is a free spirit who believes in the power of feminine sexuality and uses it to manipulate men, while Cherokee is a sensitive man who wants to be a woman. As Sissy settles into life on the ranch, she becomes involved in a love triangle between two of the cowgirls, Bonanza and her lover, the androgynous ranch hand, Delores Del Ruby (played by John Hurt). Sissy also falls for a former CIA agent named Julian Gitche (played by Pat Morita), who is obsessed with cowgirls and wants to turn them into the perfect assassins. The movie is a surreal and whimsical exploration of gender roles and sexuality, as well as a commentary on American consumerism and the environmental movement. The film's plot is driven by Sissy's journey of self-discovery, as she learns to embrace her unique qualities and finds a sense of belonging among the outcasts at the Rubber Rose Ranch. Even Cowgirls Get the Blues received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising the film's unconventional narrative and quirky characters, while others criticized it for being self-indulgent and unfocused. However, the movie has since become a cult classic and is considered by some to be one of Van Sant's most underrated films. Uma Thurman delivers a standout performance as Sissy, capturing the character's sense of humor, vulnerability, and strength. The supporting cast is also excellent, with Lorraine Bracco and John Hurt offering memorable turns as the eccentric Madame Zoe and the androgynous Delores Del Ruby, respectively. The movie's soundtrack features songs by artists such as k.d. lang, Patsy Cline, and Lyle Lovett, adding to the film's quirky and unconventional atmosphere. Overall, Even Cowgirls Get the Blues is a unique and memorable film that explores complex themes with humor and heart, and features a standout performance by Uma Thurman.