Ride (2025) on Paramount+: A Gritty Rodeo Drama That Hits Hard

On top of telling a story about rodeo life, Jake Allyn’s Ride (now streaming on Paramount+) pushes viewers into its bruising highs and devastating lows. As both director and star, Allyn delivers a film that mixes the raw intensity of the sport with an unflinching look at addiction, family, and sacrifice. With veteran actors like C. Thomas Howell, Annabeth Gish, and Forrie J. Smith adding emotional weight, Ride walks a fine line between heartfelt storytelling and grim reality. But does it manage to stay on its feet, or does it stumble under the weight of its ambitions?

What Is Ride About?

Set against the unforgiving backdrop of the rodeo circuit, Ride follows a young cowboy, John Hawkins (Jake Allyn), who is grappling with more than just the demands of the sport. As he chases his dream of becoming a rodeo champion, he also battles an opioid addiction—a struggle that has fractured his relationship with his father (C. Thomas Howell), a former rodeo star himself. With his mother (Annabeth Gish) desperately trying to hold the family together, John’s journey becomes a gripping exploration of redemption, self-destruction, and the toll that relentless ambition can take. The film doesn’t just focus on the rodeo—it uses it as a metaphor for the cyclical nature of addiction, where every high comes with an inevitable fall.

What Works and What Doesn’t?

Ride succeeds in capturing the unglamorous reality of rodeo life, stripping away any romanticized notions of the sport. The cinematography immerses viewers in dusty arenas and injury-ridden competitions, creating a visceral sense of tension. Allyn’s direction shows a clear understanding of the subject matter, bringing authenticity to both the physical and emotional struggles of his characters.

However, while the film’s thematic ambition is commendable, it occasionally leans too heavily on familiar tropes. The addiction storyline, while powerful, follows a predictable trajectory, and some of the emotional beats feel more obligatory than earned. The performances elevate the material—especially Howell, whose portrayal of a tough, disappointed father adds depth—but at times, the pacing falters, making the film feel longer than it actually is.

Is Ride Worth Watching?

For fans of character-driven dramas, Ride is a compelling watch. Its portrayal of addiction and family dynamics resonates, and the rodeo setting adds a unique layer to the story. While it doesn’t completely break free from the conventions of the genre, its sincerity and strong performances make it an engaging experience. If you’re looking for a hard-hitting drama with an authentic Western feel, Ride is worth saddling up for—just don’t expect it to rewrite the rules of the game.