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Sometimes the best films come about by taking random elements that don’t seem to go together and using them in a way that makes their combination creative and compelling. For example, one might think that silly cartoon characters and a film noir aesthetic don’t go well together, but then we would not have the iconic “Who Framed Roger Rabbit”. Or how about “Star Wars”? Surely nobody could have thought mixing samurai fights, talking robots, and western saloons would lead to a good film, let alone the biggest movie franchise of all time. But consider this: a modern-day comedy where the main characters are a transvestite, a cowboy, and a gangster. Could such a surreal premise work? The answer is “yes”, and the proof is the film “Pop Kowboy”.
As stated earlier, the film is centered around three primary characters. The first is Pony, a western obsessee who longs to be a hero like the ones he watches on the silver screen. Of course, his obsession makes him look like a joke to others, and he feels that he needs a damsel in distress in order to prove his worth. He finds what he’s looking for in Frankie, a singer/dancer with the unfortunate dilemma of being a woman trapped in a man’s body When Frankie appears to lose her briefcase, Pony returns it to her. He is unaware, however, that the briefcase was meant to be left for the mafia, intended to be part of a drop-off job she had hoped would get her some money to complete her transition. Sent to pick up the briefcase is Vinnie, a screw-up who’s one misstep away from being subjected to the mafia’s wrath. With his life at stake, he’s desperate to pull off what should be a quick and easy job. The result of Pony’s unexpected intervention is a series of unanticipated and unfortunate events.
A story like this deserves a cast like no other, and there are more than enough fine actors cast in this film to help bring this story to life. Making his leading debut in the role of Pony is Shawn Driscoll, best known for bit parts on television shows like “Freshman Dorm” and “The Monroes”, as well as stand-in roles for films like “Beowulf” and “Prom Night”. Although his portrayal of Frankie remains his only screen role, Craig Olsen still stands out as the co-host of “The Craig and Robbie Hour” on Global Voice Broadcasting Radio. “General Hospital” regular Ronnie Marmo plays Vinnie, and legendary TV actor Ron Hunter plays Nicky, the crime boss who puts the events of the plot in motion and inadvertently causes the three main characters to come together.
There’s never a time when a good light-hearted comedy would come in handy when easing one of their troubles, and “Pop Kowboy” fits the bill to a T. While not without its emotional dramatic moments, particularly those involving Frankie (whose struggles as a transwoman can be easily identified with by many), the film is first and foremost a comedy, and a hilarious one as well. Those interested can access the film at the Indie Movie Store here.
