STORYLINE: Dylan, a 21 year-old construction worker in New Mexico, joins a community of queer rodeo performers in search of their own version of the American dream. While working on a ranch in the breathtaking expanse of the Southwest, they contend with the undeniable forces of nature, family, and love. (IMDb) 

   As I sat down for the matinee showing of National Anthem I did not know much about the movie. Basically I had seen the trailer once, was intrigued by it, and sat down, with a popcorn and soft drink, for the very first showtime that worked out. 

    The neowestern quickly captivated me and I was completely mesmerized by the unfolding story.  The movie delves into the typical themes of acceptance and hatred.  The way the film presented them was, at times, typical.

    The way National Anthem presented its story I thought was a where the film drew its power. The outsider, looking in, storyline has been done before, especially the character looking for themself. Dylan, the central character of the film, found himself when he was not expecting to. Again this storyline has been done countless times before. 

   What makes this one work for me, without giving spoilers, is not everything us wrapped up in a nice bow ay the conclusion of the film. That is realistic. Life works out that way.  Sometimes you are up, sometimes you are down. 

     I will admit that I was chocked up coming out if this film. No it was not because the popcorn went down the wrong way.  Yes it was because the movie made that much on an impression on me.  It is a powerful movie to watch. 

    Until next time I will see you at the movies!