On paper, Jockey, with its standard plot and simplified characterizations should feel familiar. An aging "fill in the blank" (in this case a jockey) has to come to terms with his skill set slipping only to meet a younger (in this case a jockey) who he mentors. Yes we've seen it all before. So as I watched Jockey I was shocked at just how engaged and fascinated I was despite knowing exactly how it was going to play out and being surprised at absolutely nothing that happens.
Really it comes down to two things: the incredible cast and remarkable first time director Clint Bentley. Clifton Collins Jr., one of those character actors who you recognize from so many things but can't quite put your finger on, knocks it out of the park as the title character. He brings such an amazing yet subtle power to his character in a roll, like I said, which should be rather cliche and rote. He makes it anything but. His charisma on screen is powerful but he never over plays it, always keeping his character reigned in to make it all the more powerful. Supported by the wonderful Molly Parker and up and comer Moisés Arias, Jockey's cast are a perfect team that sell this story.
But a lot of the credit has to go to director Bentley. He has made a film that is gorgeous to look at, finding absolute beauty in the simplest of things. He tells his story economically filling each moment with a richness of pathos that is outstanding. As I said there isn't much here but he, and his talented cast, make Jockey honest and rich and completely rewarding.
Jockey
Starring: Clifton Collins Jr., Molly Parker, Moisés Arias
Director: Clint Bentley
Writers: Greg Kwedar, Clint Bentley
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