Cowboy is a powerful new feature film that captures the grit, heartache, and redemption woven into the culture of modern rodeo. With a leading performance by Ben Foster and the feature directorial debut of Cameron Duddy, Cowboy is set to make a lasting impression. Whether you’re a fan of character-driven Westerns or an actor hoping to be part of a bold new story, here’s your full guide to Cowboy.
About Cowboy
Cowboy is a dramatic feature film set within the rugged, emotionally charged world of professional rodeo. It follows two men from vastly different walks of life—one at the end of his career, the other just beginning—who form an unlikely partnership on the rodeo circuit. Their story unfolds against a backdrop of personal failure, legacy, and redemption.
The film is currently in production and is expected to premiere in 2026.
Plot Summary
The story centers on Lee “Babe” Midnight, a washed-up former rodeo champion scraping by on small shows while dealing pills and avoiding responsibility. When he crosses paths with Clif Casey, a talented young veteran eager to prove himself, Lee reluctantly agrees to take him under his wing.
As Clif rises through the ranks, eventually qualifying for the prestigious Calgary Stampede, Lee spirals into self-destruction—haunted by guilt over a friend’s injury, his failure as a father, and his waning abilities. After a devastating betrayal and a near-fatal accident, Lee attempts redemption by riding one last bull, leaving behind a symbolic gift for Clif to pass on to his estranged son.
The film explores masculinity, redemption, ambition, and the emotional cost of greatness in a world where physical toughness often masks deeper wounds.
Cast and Characters
- Ben Foster as Lee “Babe” Midnight – A conflicted rodeo veteran seeking redemption
- Rudy Pankow as Clif Casey – A rising rodeo star and military veteran
- Laysla De Oliveira as Alejandra Cruz – The mother of Lee’s son, Ace
- Gabriel Basso, Mark Wystrach, and Taylor Lewan – Supporting roles tied to the rodeo world
The casting combines established talent with rising stars, ensuring performances that are both grounded and emotionally resonant.
Production Details
- Director: Cameron Duddy (musician, visual storyteller, and member of country group Midland)
- Writers: Cameron Duddy, Jess Carson, and Adair Cole
- Producers: Paint Horse Pictures, Chute (Brightlight) Productions Inc., and Range Media Partners
- Filming Dates: June 23 – July 30, 2025
- Locations: British Columbia and Alberta, including scenes at the Calgary Stampede
Cameron Duddy’s personal connection to country culture and visual storytelling is expected to give Cowboy an intimate, cinematic tone.
Themes and Style
Cowboy tackles heavy emotional themes, including:
- Fatherhood and generational legacy
- Addiction, guilt, and redemption
- The cost of ambition and competition
- Masculinity and emotional repression
The film combines the authenticity of rodeo life with deep character study, appealing to fans of The Rider, Crazy Heart, and 8 Seconds.
Meet the Casting Directors Behind Cowboy
Chelsea Ellis Bloch
Known for her work on Honey Boy (2019), Blue Beetle (2023), and Lady in the Lake (2024), Chelsea Ellis Bloch brings a deep understanding of emotionally driven casting. Her projects often focus on complex, layered characters, making her a strong match for a drama like Cowboy.
Marisol Roncali
With credits that include Blue Beetle (2023), Emily the Criminal (2022), and Lady in the Lake (2024), Marisol Roncali is known for assembling authentic ensembles and launching breakout performances. Her casting reflects grit, naturalism, and strong emotional intuition.
Maureen Webb
Maureen Webb has cast for Shōgun (2024), The Smashing Machine (2025), and Fire Country (2022). With strong roots in both U.S. and Canadian casting, Webb is instrumental in securing talent that fits not only emotionally, but culturally, within the story’s world.
Together, these casting directors are responsible for crafting a dynamic, character-rich ensemble capable of carrying the physicality and emotional intensity Cowboy demands.
Call to Action
Cowboy is shaping up to be a standout entry in the modern Western genre—an emotionally grounded, action-driven film set against the unforgiving backdrop of professional rodeo.
To audition for a role in Cowboy, stay tuned to Project Casting. We’ll keep you posted as soon as new casting calls and job opportunities become available.
If you’re an actor, rodeo specialist, or crew member with a passion for storytelling that blends grit and heart, this is one project you won’t want to miss.
