"Painted Hero" is a rodeo movie with some intrigue and a murder. The acting, especially by Dwight Yoakam and Bo Hopkins is totally acceptable. Unfortunately the film has several flaws that detract. First, certain scenes seem to go on forever. Some strategic trimming would have helped. As is the movie takes way too long getting to a very underwhelming conclusion. Certain parts of "Painted Hero" are left unexplained so there is a feeling throughout that the story should have been better developed. At 105 minutes, things drag considerably, especially in the middle section. Nevertheless, this is recommended for fans of Yoakam and Hopkins. - MERK

I am a Dwight Yoakam fan, rodeo fan, and country music fan but still did not like this movie. I thought I would give it a shot since it had all 3 in it. The acting was just not up to par. I don't think it summarized the rodeo very well and it took place in one city. The city which was Waco they made out like it was a small country town. If you've ever been there you would know that it really isn't. There are many other movies to watch that do a much better job. The last good rodeo movie was 8 Seconds. I wish another one would be made but I guess it just isn't a popular enough subject. This movie just shouldn't be up there.

This little seen movie deserves all the respect it can get. It is different, and doesn't lack twisting story lines. Country music star Dwight Yoakam plays a rodeo clown named Virgil Kidder. Virgil works for his buddy Brownie(Bo Hopkins)and returns to Waco, where he will have to face his past. This is where he ran out on his pregnant girlfriend Katelin(Michelle Joyner). The local pompous Sheriff Acuff(John Getz)blames Virgil for an accident that ended his bull riding career. Virgil just needs to lay low and not cause a commotion for the weekend, so they can move on to Amarillo. This rodeo clown has enough trouble in the ring; but ends up in a strange relationship with the Sheriff's niece(Kiersten Warren), who happens to think she is a vampire. There is also her stud bull riding brother(Walton Goggins)that wants a piece of Virgil's hide. Not enough? Enter a meeting with Katelin. Interesting? Hell yes. Also in the cast: Cindy Pickett, Peter Fonda and Brent Anderson. Filmed in and around the areas of Denton and Wichita Falls, Texas.

THIS COMMENT DOES CONTAIN MILD SPOILERS!!!!"Painted Hero" is a really good movie. Dwight Yoakam is Virgil Kidder. He's a rodeo clown. A long time ago he left his family, but now he's come back. Then he meets Teresa (Kiersten Warren) who is a little crazy. She thinks she's a vampire. During one night, Teresa dies under suspicious circumstances. Virgil is blamed for her murder, and now he has to clear his name. This is a great movie because the acting is first-rate. Dwight Yoakam puts in a convincing performance. The writing is offbeat and different. I can't believe this movie went DTV. It shouldn't have met that fate. In the end: If you want an unusual drama, "Painted Hero" is a good choice.For more insanity, please visit: comeuppancereviews.com