Buck

Buck is a 2011 documentary film about the life and work of Buck Brannaman, a horse trainer and clinician who uses natural horsemanship techniques to train horses and educate their owners. The film tells the story of Brannaman's troubled childhood and how it inspired him to become a horseman, as well as his experiences working with horses and their owners.

The documentary starts off by introducing Buck, a soft-spoken and gentle man who has made a name for himself as a horse whisperer. Through interviews with family members, friends, and those who have worked with him, we learn about his upbringing and how it has influenced his approach to working with horses. Buck's parents were both abusive, and he and his brother learned to avoid their wrath by becoming expert riders. Buck later became a protégé of Tom Dorrance, a legendary horseman, and refined his natural horsemanship techniques.

The film shows Buck in action, as he travels the country giving clinics and helping horses and their owners work through their issues. He is often called upon to work with horses that have acquired bad habits or are considered 'problem' horses. The footage of Buck working with these horses is fascinating to watch, as he seems to have a sixth sense for understanding their behavior and motivations. He uses his techniques to communicate with them in a way that is natural and non-threatening, allowing them to respond willingly and without fear.

The film also follows Buck as he deals with the pressures of fame and the impact his success has had on his personal life. He is a devoted father and husband but struggles to balance his work with his family obligations. As he travels around the country, he is constantly bombarded with requests for his time and attention. He is in high demand as a clinician and is often booked years in advance. The film explores the sacrifices he has had to make to pursue his passion for training horses and helping people.

Throughout the film, we also hear from several of Buck's clients and peers, all of whom speak highly of him and his methods. One of the most moving stories is that of a woman whose horse had developed a fear of being ridden. Buck helped her and her horse overcome their issues, and they went on to compete in a prestigious horse show. The woman credits Buck with helping her regain her confidence and self-esteem.

The film is beautifully shot, with sweeping vistas of the American West and close-ups of horses and their riders. The music, composed by David Robbins, is a perfect accompaniment to the visuals, featuring haunting guitar melodies and atmospheric soundscapes.

Overall, Buck is a deeply inspiring and moving documentary that will appeal to anyone with an interest in horses and natural horsemanship. It shows how one man's troubled past has been transformed into a life's calling, and how his passion for horses has touched the lives of countless people and animals. It is a testament to the power of trust, respect, and love in building strong relationships between humans and animals.