The Resurrection of Broncho Billy

Synopsis

"The Resurrection of Broncho Billy" is a 1970 short Western film that combines nostalgia and humor to tell the story of an aging fan who idolizes the legendary silent film cowboy Broncho Billy. The film centers on Bob, a young man enamored with the old Western heroes, who takes his passion a step further by attempting to live out the adventures of Broncho Billy in his own life. This charming narrative explores themes of escapism, heroism, and the clash between fantasy and reality. With its heartfelt portrayal of a unique fan's journey, the film captures the spirit of classic Westerns while offering a modern twist infused with wit and sentimentality.

Cast

• 

  Johnny Crawford

  Broncho Billy

• 

  Kristin Harmon

  The Girl

• 

  Ruth Hussey

  Voice Over

• 

  Ricky Nelson

  Voice Over

• Wild Bill Tucker

  Old Timer

• 

  Ray Montgomery

  Store Owner

Reviews

Critically, "The Resurrection of Broncho Billy" has been acknowledged for its creative storytelling and homage to early Western cinema. While it holds a modest IMDb rating of 5.9/10, this score reflects mixed but generally appreciative viewer responses. Some critics praise the film for its inventive narrative and nostalgic charm; the Los Angeles Times once noted its "engaging blend of humor and sentiment," highlighting its unique take on Western tropes. However, others found it less compelling, citing a slow pace and a niche appeal that might not resonate with broader audiences. On Rotten Tomatoes, though it lacks a large number of formal reviews, it maintains a positive standing among classic film enthusiasts who value its originality and the performance of Johnny Crawford. Overall, "The Resurrection of Broncho Billy" is regarded as a thoughtful and endearing short film that appeals to fans of Westerns and cinematic history, albeit with its limitations in mass appeal and pacing.

See also

Mon Oncle

My Neighbors the Yamadas

Black Narcissus

Twitches Too