The Mustang

2019 • 96 minutes

About this movie

Roman Coleman (Matthias Schoenaerts), a convict in a rural Nevada prison who struggles to escape his past, rediscovers his own humanity in a social rehabilitation program. There he must gentle an especially unbreakable mustang named Marquis. During the program, Roman is helped by a no-nonsense veteran trainer (Bruce Dern) and an outgoing fellow inmate and trick rider (Jason Mitchell). His journey with Marquis inspires a heartfelt connection and challenges him to be a better person.

Ratings and reviews

"Some horses can be broken, some can't," Bruce Dern's words in this seamless ballad of redemption. The story is based on an actual inmate program where prisoners in American rural states train wild horses for auction. It is concisely filmed and is sharp in its focus on a long-term prisoner who is inducted into the program having proven recalcitrant in the penal system. It is a study of anger, trust, freedom and responsibility where a horse becomes a metaphor for its trainer. Is it the horse being trained or the prisoner? Is the prisoner broken in or the horse? The two become interchangeable in spirit.

Storyline of substance, quality cast, well put together. Not a fairytale, kept it real and true to its purpose which I respect. Matthias Schoenaerts was the perfect guy for the job. A true actor!

An outstanding film in every aspect.