Cry Macho

This 2021 American neo-Western drama film, directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, is based on the 1975 novel of the same name by N. Richard Nash. Set in 1979, the story follows Mike Milo (Clint Eastwood), a former rodeo star and horse breeder who, after personal losses and being fired by his ex-boss Howard Polk (Dwight Yoakam), is tasked with traveling to Mexico to retrieve Howard's thirteen-year-old son, Rafael "Rafo" (Eduardo Minett), from his mother Leta (Fernanda Urrejola), a woman of questionable character. Mike finds Rafo at an underground cockfighting ring, where the boy participates with his fighting rooster named Macho. Initially distrustful, Rafo gradually bonds with Mike as they embark on a journey through Mexico, facing challenges such as being pursued by Leta's associates and evading authorities. Along the way, they find temporary refuge in a small town where Mike meets a widow, Marta (Natalia Traven), and her family, offering him a sense of peace and an opportunity to reflect on his life. The film delves into themes of redemption, friendship, and the reevaluation of traditional notions of masculinity, emphasizing that true strength lies not only in physical prowess but also in compassion and understanding. Filming took place in New Mexico from November to December 2020, with the premiere on September 17, 2021. Despite mixed critical reviews, the film was noted for its visual style and musical score, as well as Eastwood's profound and touching performance, demonstrating his continued exploration of complex human emotions and relationships at the age of 91.