Ride Around the World

Contrary to popular myth, cowboys are not unique to the American West: the global cowboy culture, based on community traditions and a deep love of the land, stretches back 1,200 years. This IMAX production from filmmaker Harry Lynch covers the historical landscape while offering a colorful, if superficial look at today's cowboys, vaqueros, gauchos, and baqueanos. The lifestyle originated in the mounted warrior society of North Africa, was later transferred to Spain, and then followed the conquistadores to the wide open spaces of Latin America, including Argentina, Chile, and most important, Mexico. On the disputed border between Texas and Mexico, it was inevitable that cattle would stray and the men who herded them on horseback would make their way north into new territories in the U.S., eventually spreading all the way into Canada. Similarities and differences between cowboys from different countries are described, along with the world of the rodeo and activities such as branding and horse training. Viewers will learn that some qualities are universal, such as the need for teamwork and the eternal bond between horse and rider. Despite an overpowering musical score that almost drowns out the soft-spoken narrator at times, the documentary boasts the considerable visual appeal characteristic of IMAX films (especially on Blu-ray). DVD/Blu-ray extras include a “making-of” featurette and a trivia quiz. A strong optional purchase. Aud: P. (S. Rees)