When you think of cowboys what usually comes to mind is the white western version of cowboys that the media has pushed on us for years. Never showing that there were Black cowboys as well.
Concrete Cowboy follows the coming of age story following a 15-year old boy, Cole, played by Caleb McLaughlin (Stranger Things Star) who is a troubled teen not finding his way in life yet. His mother sent him to live with his estranged father, Harp, played by Idris Elba to set him back on the right path. Forming this newfound bond with his father while learning his father’s history. Making connections with a greater sense of community that he never expected to.
The history and culture of the Black “urban cowboys” who have populated the greater part of Northern Philadelphia for over 100 years. A history not many seem to know about because the media or especially Hollywood doesn’t tell stories that showcase Black people in different lights compared to what they are always shown as; people always dealing with never-ending racism. The media never show Black people in different aspects of life, like being a cowboy or even a pirate and this movie is a step in the right direction.
Concrete Cowboy is a breath of fresh air in a way that shows media how Black people do have normal problems outside of racism and constant prejudice. Showing even in modern society that has cars, Black “urban cowboys” is a culture that has traditions that are very alive and well today, but one that one was continuously whitewashed.
