Who would have thought a film like 'Tex' could still turn heads in the year it was released, 1982, and continue to do so with such gusto? Starring Matt Dillon as the titular character, 'Tex' is a slice of American life that few movies today dare to touch. We journey to rural Oklahoma, meeting Tex McCormick, a teenager navigating the treacherous waters of adolescence while grappling with the loss of his mother and the disappearance of his father. Directed by Tim Hunter, this movie delves into themes that question the very foundation of familial bonds and the struggle for identity in a rapidly changing world.
More than just another product of the 80s Hollywood machine, 'Tex' is based on S.E. Hinton’s novel, bringing to life the raw and unfiltered American experience. This is not your typical glossy, sugar-coated teenage angst film. It's a tribute to grit, the working class, and yes, a touch of old-fashioned cowboy charm that doesn't conform to the sanitized narratives liberals often embrace. This film isn’t about finding one's self through endless self-exploration. Instead, it places value on hard work, family loyalty, and those much-lauded American freedoms.
Let's discuss 10 reasons why 'Tex' is a film worth revisiting and perhaps, even celebrating:
Matt Dillon Shines Bright: Before Dillon's career took off in various other projects, 'Tex' provided a platform where he could showcase his acting chops. His portrayal of a young man dealing with internal and external conflicts with sincerity is commendable. Dillon's performance is the heart of the film, capturing the perfect balance of vulnerability and toughness.
A Tribute to S.E. Hinton: The film remains fairly true to the source material written by Tulsa native S.E. Hinton. Her knack for depicting young adult struggles with authenticity and rawness is unparalleled. In today's market-driven literary world, her stories stood alone in addressing issues of class, family, and identity without the preachiness all too common in modern adaptations.
Visual Storytelling: The cinematography captures the quintessence of rural America in a down-to-earth manner. With picturesque scenes—a stark contrast to the urban-centric narratives of many films—the visual palette of 'Tex' speaks volumes without needing dialogue. It's a breath of fresh air bereft of the sterile urban glam.
A Tale That Stands the Test of Time: Despite changes in society since the 80s, the central themes of 'Tex' remain relevant. Adolescence, responsibility, and the search for self within societal constraints are timeless themes that resonate across generations. It’s a cultural artifact that transcends its release era.
Value-Driven Storytelling: In a modern era where sometimes character development and narrative take a backseat to spectacle, 'Tex' offers hearty storytelling that might not appease viewers glued to CGI effects but certainly rewards those who watch for substance. It's an ode to simpler times, when storytelling mattered most.
Themes of Family and Responsibility: This isn’t just rebellious youth angst; it’s a journey of a young man trying to hold a fractured family together. It dives headfirst into concepts of loyalty and guardianship that can sometimes feel optional in today's self-serving world. Watching Tex juggle his personal aspirations with family obligations is both heartwarming and inspiring.
No Nonsense Dialogues: Unlike today where dialogues tend to cater to contemporary vernacular laced with political correctness, 'Tex' is straightforward. The film's raw conversations add authenticity and depth, drawing viewers into a world that feels both close and far from the comfortable narratives found on streaming platforms.
Celebration of Grit: Here's a film that doesn’t shy away from showing the grit and determination of life on a ranch. It's a celebration of blue-collar ethics and a reminder of the everyday challenges faced by many Americans. There's bravery in realism here—a world that's often polished out of existence in today's media.
An Unapologetic Tone: 'Tex' doesn't bend to suit prevailing norms or placate trendy sensibilities of political correctness. It projects a narrative that's unapologetic and unfiltered, not steering away from the harsh realities of life—a stark contrast to the politically-cautious films we see today.
A Call to Examine Personal Values: Watching 'Tex' is more than passive entertainment. It encourages self-reflection on one’s own values and responsibilities in relation to family and society. It prompts questions about the kind of life one wishes to lead and who should influence those choices.
Texas may not be the flashiest film, and it certainly wasn't the highest-grossing flick of the 80s. However, it holds an undeniable charm and relevance that makes it a classic for anyone interested in genuine storytelling over the incessant pandering to insatiable trends.