The Cowboys Are Black

About This Movie

So, 'The Cowboys Are Black' is this intriguing little documentary from 1966 that really captures a unique subculture. It follows a group of everyday guys—taxi drivers, mechanics, masons—who escape their mundane lives by diving into their own version of a Western. Riding mopeds dressed like Johnny Halliday and sporting Zazou pants, they wield supermarket-purchased guns for their weekend escapades, loaded with blanks, of course. There’s this raw, almost chaotic energy to it all, reflecting their obsession with old Hollywood tough guys like Robinson and Ford. The pacing feels loose, almost spontaneous, which kind of adds to the authenticity. It's a fascinating look at how far people will go to embrace the myths of film, a clever commentary on violence wrapped in a playful veneer.

This film is quite scarce, with limited availability on various formats. Many collectors have noted the challenge in finding decent quality prints, making it a curious item for those interested in niche documentaries. The film's exploration of identity and escapism resonates well with collectors who appreciate the intersection of cinema and real life, giving it a distinct place in the collector's market.