‘Buck’ tells inspiring story of horse trainer overcoming difficult childhood

There are some humans connected to animals in ways we can't begin to comprehend, communicating with the creatures on a mysteriously mutual mental wavelength. One such individual is Buck Brannaman, a man whose incredible life and insightful philosophy is both amazing and enlightening.

Brannaman is the subject of "Buck," a documentary directed by first-time filmmaker Cindy Meehl. "Buck" will be playing at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center from July 15 to 28. Brannaman's unbelievable understanding of horses is instantly put on display as Meehl gives viewers a front-row ticket to one of his insanely popular horse training seminars. Nine months out of the year, Brannaman holds hands-on classes, bringing his seemingly telepathic talent to tame wild and damaged horses to people all across the country. Even the brashest bucking bronco is quickly controlled by Brannaman's gentle touch. The cowboy is always cool, calm and clever, cracking jokes and asking owners to try and understand their animals rather than simply controlling them. Brannaman's tender approach to training horses is effective and moving, becoming even more so once he reveals painful personal experiences as his inspiration for instruction.

At the age of 6, Brannaman and his older brother became national icons as youth trick ropers. Their father forced the boys to perform at rodeos, on television shows and in commercials, mercilessly beating the children regardless of their best efforts. Film reels, photographs and interviews recount Brannaman's troubling childhood. Before being adopted by foster parents, Brannaman and his brother lived in perpetual fear of their relentlessly abusive father. Though these accounts are heart wrenching and disturbing, one can see how Brannaman became the man he is by persevering from the darkest of days.

As Brannaman points out, when he helps people with horse problems, he is often helping horses with people problems. As a damaged good himself, Brannaman realizes troubled horses are typically the product of a troubled upbringing and must recuperate before they can cooperate. Brannaman holds therapeutic discussions with trainers, explaining that their steeds are mirrors into their souls and that they must fix themselves in order to fix their horses.

"Buck" is a powerfully poignant documentary featuring one of the most fascinating individuals alive today. Watching the Zen master of the horse world connect to these creatures is truly captivating. Brannaman's wisdom also works on a wider scale, as his approach to caring for the animals becomes metaphorical to just about every aspect of our daily lives. Though at times the film feels like it's force-feeding this point to viewers in attempts to fatten them up on this sentimental message, it is emotionally evocative nonetheless. "Buck" is a clearly cut documentary that's a tribute to the life and work of Buck Brannaman and an uplifting celebration of everything the real-life horse whisperer stands for.

mikehollins@dailynebraskan.com

Grade: A-