The American Cowboy. In this 1950 film, sponsored by Ford, a journalist visits a Colorado ranch to learn how the cowboys live. He is initially surprised that they aren’t exactly like the ones in the movies—they drive pickup trucks and all!—but quickly learns that they are a hard-working lot, and much of the work has changed little since the days of the Old West. If you like cowboys, this is your film. It documents a year’s work raising cattle on the ranch, and also includes plenty of rodeo footage. Lots of historical here, pardner. Ratings: Camp/Humor Value: ***. Weirdness: **. Historical Interest: *****. Overall Rating: ***.