The Rider (2018)

Kernel Score: 83% · 540 ratings · Rated R

Genres: Drama, Western

Released: 2018-03-28

Runtime: 103 minutes

Where to watch The Rider

  • Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

Once a rising star of the rodeo circuit, and a gifted horse trainer, young cowboy Brady is warned that his riding days are over after a horse crushed his skull at a rodeo. In an attempt to regain control of his own fate, Brady undertakes a search for a new identity and what it means to be a man in the heartland of the United States.

The Rider parents' guide: ages 13+

Parents need to know that The Rider is an R-rated drama about a rodeo cowboy recovering from a severe head injury, dealing with themes of disability and loss of identity.

  • Violence & scariness: Some — Depicts the aftermath of a serious riding accident and head injury, with some difficult recovery scenes.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

Movies like The Rider

If you liked The Rider, these are the movies we'd watch next.

Director

Chloé Zhao

Cast

  • Brady Jandreau as Brady Blackburn
  • Tim Jandreau as Wayne Blackburn
  • Lilly Jandreau as Lilly Blackburn
  • Cat Clifford as Cat Clifford
  • Terri Dawn Pourier as Terri Dawn Pourier
  • Lane Scott as Lane Scott
  • Tanner Langdeau as Tanner Langdeau
  • James Calhoon as James Calhoon
  • Derrick Janis as Victor Chasing Hawk
  • Greg Barber as Bar Owner

The Rider FAQ

Is The Rider good?

The Rider has an 83% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 540 audience ratings.

Where can I watch The Rider?

In the US you can rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is The Rider OK for kids?

The Rider is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 13+. Parents need to know that The Rider is an R-rated drama about a rodeo cowboy recovering from a severe head injury, dealing with themes of disability and loss of identity.

What movies are like The Rider?

If you liked The Rider, try The Hateful Eight, Hostiles, True Grit and Walk. Ride. Rodeo..