The Honkers 1972
"A honker is a rough bull or bronc that can't be broken. Lew Lathrop is a honker!"
Steve Ihnat's 1972 comedy-drama The Honkers follows Lew Lathrop, a once-dominant rodeo star whose relentless ego has eroded every relationship in his life.
Director: Steve Ihnat
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Honkers (1972) about?
The film centers on Lew Lathrop, a former rodeo champion whose unchecked ego has cost him his marriage, his relationship with his son, and the trust of his closest friend. As his career stalls and his personal life crumbles, Lew must confront the man he's become before it's too late.
Who directed The Honkers?
The Honkers was directed by Steve Ihnat, a filmmaker known for blending comedy and drama with a keen eye for character-driven stories.
Who stars in The Honkers?
The film features an ensemble cast led by James Coburn, with standout performances from Lois Nettleton, Slim Pickens, Anne Archer, and Richard Anderson.
Is The Honkers (1972) worth watching?
While not a household name, The Honkers offers a thoughtful mix of humor and melancholy, anchored by James Coburn's magnetic performance. Its themes of pride and redemption make it a worthwhile watch for fans of character-driven dramas, especially those who enjoy Western-tinged stories with a twist.
How long is The Honkers?
The Honkers runs 102 minutes, or just under two hours.
About The Honkers (1972) — James Coburn Stars in a Rodeo Drama of Pride and Loss
Steve Ihnat's 1972 comedy-drama The Honkers follows Lew Lathrop, a once-dominant rodeo star whose relentless ego has eroded every relationship in his life. Once untouchable in the arena, he now finds himself stranded on the fringes of a sport he helped define, still convinced his name alone should command respect. As his wife, son, and closest friend drift away, Lew's refusal to confront his own flaws turns him into a relic, a rough bull no one—least of all himself—can break. The film blends sharp wit with melancholy, capturing the fading glory of a man who mistook pride for strength.
Set against the dusty arenas and honky-tonk shadows of the American West, The Honkers explores themes of legacy, sacrifice, and the price of unchecked self-interest. James Coburn delivers a standout performance as Lew, a man whose charm once charmed crowds but now leaves only emptiness in its wake. With a mix of humor and heartache, the movie invites viewers to laugh at Lew's antics while quietly questioning what it takes to truly connect with the people we love.