Existential male drama The jockey 2021 received recognition at the Sundance Festival and a prize from the American Film Institute. It is praised by critics, but the audience appreciated not so enthusiastically. But if you want to see a realistic male story, the Jockey will give you 1.5 hours of fun.
The Jockey is the debut directorial work of Clint Bentley, previously known as the screenwriter of the thriller Trans Pecos. His father was a professional jockey, so the picture of immersion in the world of the racecourse and horse racing he turned out to be more than true and realistic.
“Jockey” is the story of a jockey who is broken by numerous injuries, who already has time to retire. Apart from horses, constant diets and the confrontation with his old age, there is nothing in his life. In addition, a magnificent new horse appears in the stable, which will easily become a champion with the right jockey.
Suddenly, a young man appears in the life of the main character, who takes the first steps in the profession of jockey and declares that he is his son.
The jockey is rightly scolded for a rather stereotypical plot. The story you are told will not surprise you. But still "Jockey" bribes with its beauty, authenticity and vitality. In addition, Clifton Collins, whom you have seen in numerous minor and episodic roles ("Capote", "Star Trek", "Westworld", etc.) received the main role, reveals here as an incredibly powerful actor. The viewer has no choice but to believe his every move, word and look.
Jockey is a calm existential film about a man forced to sum up his own life and accept his new position. Viewers will not see here storms of emotions, violent conflicts, suffering or delight. But they will see real life, where faced with the refusal to continue working from a long-term friend, the protagonist calmly says “I will forgive you, someday...” and leaves. After all, this is life - there are no bright triumphal endings in it, as in the movie.
IMDB's Jockey rating of 6.4 is a fair estimate.