Is The Great American Cowboy Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Great American Cowboy is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies.
It features a runtime of 89 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Great American Cowboy Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1973, The Great American Cowboy enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on The battle between two rodeo stars for the world championship: veteran Larry Mahan and newcomer Phil Lyne. Under the direction of Kieth Merrill, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Joel McCrea. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Great American Cowboy offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, The Great American Cowboy resonates with current cultural themes in the Documentary space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, The Great American Cowboy is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Great American Cowboy centers on a unique premise within the Documentary landscape. The battle between two rodeo stars for the world championship: veteran Larry Mahan and newcomer Phil Lyne. Narrated by Cowboy Hall of Fame actor Joel Mc Crea, this Academy Award-winning documentary takes the viewer inside the rodeo arena with today's cowboys. Features incredible "in-the-saddle" photography. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1973 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Great American Cowboy has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Great American Cowboy sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Great American Cowboy (1973): with an audience rating of 6/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Documentary cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Great American Cowboy has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6/10, and global collection metrics, The Great American Cowboy stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1973 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Great American Cowboy movie hit or flop?
The Great American Cowboy has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Great American Cowboy worth watching?
The Great American Cowboy is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Documentary movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Great American Cowboy online?
The Great American Cowboy may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Explore More Verdicts
More with Joel McCrea
Sioux Nation
Sam Peckinpah's West: Legacy of a Hollywood Renegade
Barbara Stanwyck: Straight Down The Line
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Great American Cowboy movie hit or flop?
The Great American Cowboy has received mixed reviews with a 6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Great American Cowboy worth watching?
The Great American Cowboy is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Documentary movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Great American Cowboy online?
The Great American Cowboy may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of The Great American Cowboy?
The Great American Cowboy is a Documentary movie that follows: The battle between two rodeo stars for the world championship: veteran Larry Mahan and newcomer Phil Lyne. Narrated by Cowboy Hall of Fame actor Joel Mc Crea, this Academy Award-winning documentary ta...
Is The Great American Cowboy family friendly?
The Great American Cowboy is classified as Documentary. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is The Great American Cowboy available in?
The Great American Cowboy is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
The battle between two rodeo stars for the world championship: veteran Larry Mahan and newcomer Phil Lyne. Narrated by Cowboy Hall of Fame actor Joel Mc Crea, this Academy Award-winning documentary takes the viewer inside the rodeo arena with today's cowboys. Features incredible "in-the-saddle" photography.
Critic Reviews
No reviews found for this filter.