
Rodeo 1969
"A view of the 1968 National Rodeo Finals in Oklahoma City."
Carroll Ballard's *Rodeo (1969)* plunges viewers directly into the thrilling chaos of the 1968 National Rodeo Finals in Oklahoma City, capturing the raw intensity and high-stakes drama of one of America's most daring sports.
Director: Carroll Ballard
Cast

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rodeo (1969) about?
*Rodeo (1969)* follows the 1968 National Rodeo Finals in Oklahoma City, where top cowboys like Freckles Brown and Larry Mahan face off against some of the wildest bulls in the sport. The documentary captures the high stakes, the split-second decisions, and the sheer courage required to compete at the highest level of rodeo.
Who directed Rodeo?
Rodeo was directed by Carroll Ballard, known for his vivid and immersive storytelling in documentary filmmaking.
Who stars in Rodeo?
The film stars legendary cowboys Freckles Brown and Larry Mahan, with Myrtis Dightman also delivering a standout performance.
Is Rodeo (1969) worth watching?
While *Rodeo (1969)* lacks an IMDb rating, its high-energy action and authentic portrayal of rodeo make it a hidden gem for fans of sports documentaries and gritty, real-life drama. The film's unique perspective and intense atmosphere more than compensate for its short runtime.
How long is Rodeo?
Rodeo has a runtime of 20 minutes, making it a quick but unforgettable experience.
About Rodeo (1969) — A High-Stakes Rodeo Adventure Captured in Film
Carroll Ballard's *Rodeo (1969)* plunges viewers directly into the thrilling chaos of the 1968 National Rodeo Finals in Oklahoma City, capturing the raw intensity and high-stakes drama of one of America's most daring sports. Filmed over just four days, this short but electrifying documentary puts you in the center of the action—literally on the back of a 2,800-pound bull—as legendary cowboys like Freckles Brown and rising star Larry Mahan tackle their most fearsome opponents. The film doesn't just show rodeo; it immerses you in the pulse-pounding duel between human determination and untamed animal power, where every ride could make or break a career. With Dick Rosmini's hypnotic folk-fusion soundtrack weaving through the adrenaline, *Rodeo* transforms a sporting event into a poetic spectacle of grit and glory.
Directed with a documentary filmmaker's eye for authenticity, *Rodeo (1969)* blends the adrenaline of action cinema with the authenticity of a fly-on-the-wall sports drama. The film's tight 20-minute runtime is packed with high-energy moments, from Myrtis Dightman's daring ride to the psychological showdown between seasoned champions and fresh-faced challengers. Whether you're a fan of action films or sports documentaries, Ballard's work offers a visceral, almost cinematic experience that celebrates the courage of those who dare to face down the beast—and the history of a sport that's as much about heart as it is about skill.
Catch *Rodeo (1969)* streaming or download it to experience the thrill on multiple devices.