Watch The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky

The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky is a riveting and heartwarming Western drama set in the late 19th century in British Columbia, Canada. The movie tells the story of a young man named Norman Clay (Jerry O'Connell), who leaves his family in search of adventure and ends up joining a group of rugged and eccentric cowboys on a cattle drive.

At the center of the group is Bill Bell (Sam Elliott), a tough and experienced ranger who leads the drive and watches over the men. Bell is a bit of a loner and has a mysterious past, but he takes Norman under his wing and teaches him valuable lessons about survival, loyalty, and friendship.

Throughout the journey, the cowboys face numerous challenges, from harsh weather conditions to hostile Native American tribes, but they also experience moments of camaraderie and humor. The cook, Luther (Ricky Jay), provides comic relief with his quirky personality and culinary skills, while the other cowboys, including an ex-convict and a Native American wrangler, have their own unique stories and quirks.

As the cattle drive progresses, Norman matures and gains a deeper appreciation for the life of a cowboy. He also discovers some painful truths about his own family and learns to reconcile with his father's death. Meanwhile, Bell's past catches up with him, and he must face a difficult decision that could affect the future of the drive and his own survival.

The movie is a powerful exploration of masculinity, the Wild West, and the bonds that form between men in harsh and unpredictable environments. It features breathtaking landscapes, authentic period details, and excellent performances by the talented cast.

Sam Elliott delivers a commanding and nuanced performance as Bill Bell, capturing both his rugged exterior and tormented interior. Jerry O'Connell is also impressive as Norman, conveying his transformation from a naive city boy to a self-reliant cowboy. And Ricky Jay steals the show as Luther, delivering his lines with impeccable timing and wit.

The cinematography by Thomas Burstyn is stunning, capturing the natural beauty and vastness of the Canadian wilderness. The score by John Scott is also noteworthy, featuring haunting melodies and soaring themes that capture the emotional resonance of the story.

Overall, The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky is a must-see movie for anyone who loves Westerns, adventure, and heartfelt stories. It is a tribute to the cowboys and pioneers who braved the elements and forged a new frontier, as well as to the enduring bonds of brotherhood that define the human experience.

The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky is a 1995 tv movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.