Watch Wild Rovers

Wild Rovers is a 1971 Western film directed by Blake Edwards and starring William Holden, Ryan O'Neal, and Karl Malden. The movie follows two modern-day cowboys, Ross Bodine (William Holden) and Frank Post (Ryan O'Neal), who are stuck in a rut working for a gruff and demanding rancher named Walter Buckman (Karl Malden). Tired of the unpredictable and often dangerous life of a cowboy, they decide to rob a bank and retire to Mexico, hoping to live out their dreams in peace. The two men embark on a journey that takes them through harsh and unforgiving terrain, making dangerous enemies along the way. Ross and Frank’s relationship is tested as they discover that their ideas about their new life in Mexico are vastly different. Ross, the elder of the two, wants to settle down and live the quiet life with a Mexican woman he's fallen in love with, while Frank dreams of endless adventure and excitement. As they make their way south, the men are followed by a tenacious bank detective, Bill Bowdre (Tom Skerritt), who is determined to bring them to justice. The chase culminates in a dramatic showdown that leaves Ross and Frank facing life-changing consequences. Wild Rovers is ultimately a story about the complicated nature of friendship and the consequences of following one's dreams. It explores themes of loyalty and betrayal, ambition and contentment, and the price that one must pay for their choices. The film is beautifully shot, with stunning landscapes and a fitting score by Jerry Goldsmith. The chemistry between Holden and O'Neal is palpable, with both actors delivering strong performances. Karl Malden is equally impressive as the domineering Buckman, a man who embodies the very essence of the old west. The screenplay, penned by William Bowers, is well-crafted and thought-provoking. It tackles the myth of the American West head-on, questioning the romanticized version of cowboy life that has been portrayed in countless movies and TV shows. This is not a story of heroes and villains, but of flawed and complex individuals struggling to find their place in a world that no longer exists. While Wild Rovers was not a commercial success upon its initial release, it has since gained a cult following and critical acclaim. Its themes and message still resonate today, making it a timeless classic that deserves to be seen by anyone with an appreciation for the Western genre.