The Mustang (15)

Deep in the Nevada desert, a violent inmate is given a chance at rehabilitation by entering a programme that involves training wild mustangs. But to have any chance at controlling a horse, he must first learn to control himself. This dramatic tale is based on a true story and stars Matthias Schoenaerts, Jason Mitchell, and Bruce Dern.

Incarcerated for brutally attacking his partner, Roman Coleman (Matthias Schoenaerts) has spent the last 12 years behind bars in the middle of the Nevada desert. Aware of his own evils, the violent inmate has shown unwillingness to reintegrate into society.

However, despite his resistance, Roman is soon roped into a rehabilitation scheme: the prison’s mandatory outdoor maintenance programme. Managing to pass the tough recruitment tests to help tame wild mustangs, he meets experienced rancher Myles (Bruce Dern) who is responsible for making the horses fit for auction.

Tasked with training a horse almost as wild as he is, Roman initially struggles. But, with the help of fellow inmate Henry (Jason Mitchell), he makes steady progress and grows close to the impressive beast, who he names Marquis, as the two begin to tame each other.

Learning patience, empathy, and humanity from the experience, Roman makes efforts to reconnect with his estranged pregnant daughter, Martha (Gideon Adlon). Desperate to prove he’s changed, he invites her to auction. But if he’s to prove he’s in control of his own demons, he must first find the trust of the wild Marquis.

Inspired by a true story, this dramatic feature stars Matthias Schoenaerts (Red Sparrow, Bullhead, Rust and Bone), Jason Mitchell (Kong: Skull Island, Straight Outta Compton, Mudbound) and Academy Award nominee Bruce Dern (Nebraska, The Hateful Eight, The Burbs) and explores the power relationships and trust play in finding redemption.

Cert: 15

Running time: 1hr 37mins