by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
What is the city of Philadelphia most known for? The Cradle of Liberty of America? Philly sports fans? Cheesesteaks? Cowboys? Wait… what? As someone who grew up in South Jersey (15 minutes across the bridge from Philly), I had never heard about this cowboy community. The Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club is a fascinating subculture in Philadelphia where a group of black people ride horses through the city streets. This group of urban cowboys is ripe for a cinematic treatment.
But does directorial/writing rookie, Ricky Staub, maximize this great true story?
There are so many different types of stories that can be told. Instead, this subculture is used more as a backdrop of a coming-of-age story. Sure, Concrete Cowboy does have some focus on the actual members of the community and the issues that challenge them. In the end though, it plays second fiddle to the lives of a teenage boy and the healing relationship he has with his estranged father. The film hits plenty of common tropes of the coming-of-age genre (especially those centered in an urban setting). Do we have a fish-out-of-water story? Do we have this young man being tempted into a life of crime? Does he have to complete strange deeds that will build character? Does he have some budding feelings for a young woman? Check all of those boxes.
But what makes this film unique then?
The general setting is definitely a fresh take on this type of film. Normally you would have this kind of story of learning horses and building a relationship with one would be on a farm somewhere. But not this film. We are dropped right into a very urban setting. The production design is perfect with these run-down buildings and shaky foundations. This contrast works so well for the film. Staub is also able to keep up a brisk pace for a near two-hour film. In general, the direction features and raw and textured look that make each moment (especially the highly dramatic moments) feel so poignant. There are few scenes where Staub gets to shine as a director, especially when it comes to the action. This is not an “action” film but there are definitely moments that include shootings, horse races, police chases on foot, and so on. Those scenes have a sense of energy and zeal that really stand out in the rest of a film that focuses on very human moments instead. One more person is able to really maximize the visuals of the film: director of photography, Minka Farthing-Kohl. There is one particular set piece that houses a safe space for our young protagonist, Cole (Caleb McLaughlin). How the camera frames this hidden place is vast and beautiful. Why are these shots so compelling? It is a testament to the work of this crew.
But what element really elevates this film for the better?
The cast. We have Stranger Things alum, McLaughlin, leading this film as Cole. McLaughlin is mostly understated, as he is not the most vocal of characters, but he definitely has some emotional moments to sink his teeth into. The role that has gotten audiences’ attention going into this film is definitely Idris Elba’s Harp. Who could blame them though? It is Idris Elba. Elba is just as great as you would expect him to be. He is not necessarily in the film as much as you might think, but he commands the screen when he is. A wonderful treat in this film is Lorraine Toussaint, who plays a wise woman of the community. She is a powerful and earnest presence in the film. Method Man is featured as a cop who has a complicated connection to this community and who must balance both his job and his people. A special addition to the cast are some of the actual members of the Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club! They feel so genuine and real, which adds authenticity to the film.
The question is now… does Netflix have a winner on its hands?
Are you okay with some cliches and tropes? Are you okay with a story that leans right into coming-of-age conventions? If so, you will be open to appreciate the aspects of this film that feel special. A strong cast, a unique perspective, and some exciting elements blend together for a strong dramatic outing. Check this one out on streaming.
Grade: B