Ride Till I Die documentary review

MOVIE TITLE: Ride Till I Die

This documentary about bull riding opens on digital platforms on April 8, 2022

RATING: R

LENGTH: 98 minutes

IN A NUTSHELL:

Born and raised in Davie, Florida, Ricky Ringer came from a troubled past. His father walked out on his family and Ricky was on his own at 15 years old, but he had already found solace in bull riding. The eight-second duel of man versus beast was his emancipation and Ricky was successful early and often. Prize money earned in the arena was adding up and a chance to make the pro circuit was in sight. But despite all his success, Ricky could never win a championship, and with the rigorous schedule came a heavy price. Ricky suffered many injuries, including a horrific incident where his face was crushed in 2010 which nearly ended his career.

Now at age 40, Ricky realizes his time is running out. His body is constantly in pain as over two decades of bull riding have taken their toll. Despite all the broken bones and permanent scars, Ricky keeps riding, and with his son, Lil’ Ricky, and fellow rider Ernie Courson by his side, Ricky is determined to chase that elusive title or die trying.

RIDE TILL I DIE was directed and produced by Tony Rammos.

THINGS I LIKED:

First of all, this seems like a really tough way to earn money! I love the passion though!
There are a ton of fantastic slow-motion shots of bull riding that really make you appreciate this sport.
You see how hard the rodeo clowns work to protect the rides, even putting themselves in danger.
You see a lot of good footage of real rodeos and competitions with date & location stamps that are super helpful.
Great camera angles and coverage, especially in tight spaces.
You really do root for Ricky as you watch him ride and compete.
It’s interesting to hear about Ricky’s career through the eyes of his wife and mother. The personal touch also includes the story of Ricky’s relationship with his father, as well as with his own son.

THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE:

The target audience for this documentary seems somewhat limited, but for those who love rodeos and bull riding, they’ll really enjoy it.
Some of the music isn’t very good.
As far as a documentary goes, it’s pretty standard.

TIPS FOR PARENTS:

Profanity and F-bombs
People doing very dangerous things. Point out to your kids all of the surgeries these bull riders have endured because of all the broken body parts they experience in this sport.

THEMES:

Courage
Persistence
Passion
Grit
Family
Health & self-care

INTERESTING LINES:

“It’s the greatest 8 seconds in sports.” – Ricky Ringer
“You gotta be half crazy and half stupid to do this.” – Ricky Ringer
“He’s just always injured. I’ve never known him to not be injured.” – Ricky’s mom”
“I have all regrets, nothing but regret.” – Ricky’s mom
“Pain only lasts for so long but a lifetime of memories lasts forever.” – Ricky Ringer