"Longhorns" (2011) is a delightful and charming comedy directed and written by David Lewis. Set in 1982 Texas, the film follows Kevin, an average college student who finds himself grappling with unusual sexual fantasies involving cowboys. When new student Cesar arrives on campus and embraces his homosexuality, Kevin's denial of his own desires is challenged, leading to a journey of self-discovery and unexpected romantic encounters.
Longhorns (2001)
Plot:
Kevin (played by Jacob Newton) is your typical good ol’ boy attending college in Austin, Texas. He enjoys the usual obsessions of his peers: sex and parties. However, Kevin experiences a slight twist in his sexual fantasies, often involving cowboys. Despite his encounters with a cheerleader, during which he can’t help but think of cowboys, Kevin dismisses his fantasies as passing quirks.
Everything changes when Cesar (Derek Villanueva), an openly gay student, joins the campus. Cesar fearlessly promotes “Wear Blue Jeans If You’re Gay Day,” which garners attention and revives the forgotten trend of wearing blue jeans across the entire campus. As Kevin defends Cesar against his homophobic friend Justin (Kevin Held), he realizes his own tolerance for others but remains in denial about his own desires.
When Kevin and Cesar’s relationship becomes too intimate for Kevin’s comfort, he decides to escape for a weekend getaway with his longtime friends Steve (Dylan Vox) and Danny (Stephen Matzke) at Steve’s ranch cabin. Their plan is to invite some girls and enjoy a weekend of casual encounters. However, unexpected torrential storms prevent the ladies from joining them, leading to a different kind of intimacy between the three friends.
With a brisk pace, bright atmosphere, and a touch of sincerity, “Longhorns” effortlessly blends comedy, romance, and self-discovery. The film’s retro ambiance is reflected in its clever use of split-screen techniques and a soundtrack of original songs that pay homage to early ’80s New Wave music. The script’s amusing Texas-isms add a drolly outsized comedic touch without slipping into camp caricature.
The casting of attractive and likable actors, including Derek Villanueva and Jacob Newton (resembling a young Billy Bob Thornton), adds to the film’s endearing quality. Their performances capture the essence of the characters, and their several full-frontal appearances suggest that the casting criteria went beyond acting ability.
Shot primarily in Northern California, with a few Lone Star State exteriors, “Longhorns” boasts a modest yet capable production package, delivering an enjoyable and entertaining cinematic experience.
Keywords: “Longhorns,” 1980s Texas, romantic comedy, self-discovery, homosexuality, sexual desires, college life, comedy-drama, coming-of-age, friendship, retro atmosphere.
