The Long Ride Home (2003)

Very Cool!!!

Beautiful, moving film.

This is one of the few movies I've ever seen where the whole audience broke into spontaneous, loud applause a third of the way in.

Strong acting helps the film overcome an uncertain premise and create characters that hold our attention absolutely.

Other reviewers have pointed out good and bad features of this movies, and they all have a point.The feeling that struck me as I watched this was that it was too long.I found myself watching the clock on my DVD player to see how much longer it would last.When I find myself experiencing something like this while watching a film, it usually means the film lacks focus.I think that is true here. There are just too many subplots and unnecessary twists and turns that detract from the feeling of unity in this film. My recommendation would be that it be taken back to the editing room and severely pared down to give it the film a more distinct direction.Some good points in the film: I thought the actor playing the young boy did a good job, and his scenes held my attention.The flirtatious scene(s) where the young lawman envies the light on the leading lady's face was touching, and she did tend to "shine" a bit more in these scenes than others -- she looked better and I thought she was more likable in these scenes.The overall tone of the outdoor scenes were appealing....But I return to my main point... the film needs tighter editing....

Nothing wrong with a movie without swearing, and without much violence. Eric Roberts is a bit miscast as a literate sheriff, who doesn't ride that well (without stirrups) and the Bible quoting is fairly minimal and welcome.We need more movies like this instead of the urban crap being thrown out these days. Outdoor scenes are pretty and well filmed. Randy Travis is not bad, and Vaughn Taylor is great. It is hard for me to believe that some complained that some would be offended by the Bible quotations; how PC! Well, we western movie fans not only are not offended, we find it a refreshing change from the secular liberal mantra that Hollywood espouses.

I have seen several critical reviews of this movie. However, I purchased it based on the actors involved in the movie. I was pleasantly surprised that, my opinion, it was a good movie. Not a swear word was used in the movie - very refreshing to me. Far better movie than much of the "ilk" coming from the Left Coast these days.

Excellent cast less the wife. Production values proved money was spent to make the film. Why? Nothing new, nothing different and nothing interesting to watch. Thanks for giving Ernie another role. He's an amazing actor and always gives more than expected.