The human race is divided into two groups: those who have never tried watching a cowgirl movie and those who are gloriously addicted to ’em. All it takes is one good cowgirl movie, like Heart of a Champion, to start a chronic habit. Cowgirls are some of the best protagonists to ride along with through a narrative. They are spunky as all get out, and once they set their minds to something, there is no stopping them. These horseback-ridin’ heroines resemble the maverick spirit of independent filmmakers, striving against the vast indifference to create something unique.
The family film sector doesn’t grab the same attention as art house or horror, but it has and will remain a vibrant movement in the indie cinematic world. A requirement of that market is stringent pacing with lots of dramatic loopy-loops, more than the average picture, in order to keep the channel from being turned. Chapman makes sure you remain riveted by the twists while working on the larger relationships. I was never bored, a feat that mainstream movies almost never achieve. Just like how Charlie goes up against the rich Farnsworth family with a jar full of pocket change, this little family drama goes up against higher-budget Hollywood fare and ends up being more entertaining.
“…enriched by some top-drawer acting.”
Besides the dynamite screenplay, Heart of a Champion is enriched by some top-drawer acting. Gosselin nails the cowgirl vibe perfectly, harnessing her untamed whirlwinds with the honor code cowgirls live by. She’s that rare child actress who comes across like a real child instead of a tiny grown-up playing little. Marie does a wonderful counterpoint here by playing the mom as stern but with a hidden hurt you can feel.
Both headliners show their extensive talents here. Van Dien goes classic Hollywood older leading man in a way few others can currently approach. Through the veneer of his chiseled good looks, he projects humility and warmth almost better than Gary Cooper. Furlong proves again his depth of power as an actor. He injects insights into a deadbeat dad that other actors wouldn’t even think of. There is a moment where Troy unleashes how unhappy he is with how he ended up that Furlong makes heartwrenching. The actor perfectly portrays the aging, broken male.
By recommending Heart of a Champion, I am not promising you won’t end up hopelessly strung out on cowgirl movies like I am. However, if you are looking for a new kind of kick with a galloping pace, know that the minutes run away like wild horses when your ride with this film. Keller and his crew in Dallas, where this was shot, have made a unique family picture.
"…horseback-ridin' heroines resemble the maverick spirit of independent filmmakers..."
