The cowboy and the queen: A tale of friendship and transformation
A unique bond between royalty and a cowboy
In the documentary “The Cowboy and the Queen,” filmmaker Andrea Nevins delves into the extraordinary relationship between Monty Roberts, a horse trainer from California, and Queen Elizabeth II. Roberts’ nonviolent horse training techniques, which caught the Queen’s attention in 1989, revolutionized horse training standards globally. This 84-minute film, which premiered at DOC NYC, is set to be released in select theaters on September 6 by Greenwich Entertainment.
From corgis to horses: A shift in focus
Initially, Nevins aimed to create a documentary about Queen Elizabeth II’s passion for breeding her famous Corgis. The Queen, during her reign, owned around 30 Corgis and Dorgis, short-legged herding dogs originating from Wales. Nevins hoped to interview the women who assisted the Queen in breeding these dogs, offering a glimpse into a more personal and enjoyable aspect of the Queen’s life.
However, Nevins soon discovered that most of the Queen’s breeders and Corgi specialists had passed away. During her research in 2020, she encountered Monty Roberts, an 85-year-old cowboy who had spent over three decades advising the Queen on her horse collection. This meeting shifted the documentary’s focus entirely.
A story of resilience and compassion
After spending a day interviewing Roberts during the COVID-19 pandemic, Nevins was captivated by his story. Roberts shared how he and the Queen became friends, both seeking to transform the trauma they experienced during World War II into a gentler approach to treating horses and humans. This narrative of resilience and compassion deeply resonated with Nevins, prompting her to pivot the documentary’s focus.
Archival treasures and unseen footage
Nevins utilized archival footage, including old films and photographs stored in Roberts’ garage and a large container on his ranch, to narrate this unlikely friendship. The documentary features rich and beautiful images from the Queen’s 96-year life and 70-year reign, along with never-before-seen footage of Roberts working with the Queen’s untrained horses. Discovering this footage solidified Nevins’ determination to complete the film.
Recognition and streaming
In May, “The Cowboy and the Queen” received a nomination for the Humanitas Prize in the documentary category. It was also an official selection at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, the Berkshire International Film Festival, and the Boulder International Film Festival. The film is the third documentary that Masterclass will stream this year, following JR’s “Tehachapi” and Bess Kargman’s “Diane Warren: Relentless.” “The Cowboy and the Queen” will begin streaming on Masterclass on September 12.
Personal reflections for enthusiasts
For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, “The Cowboy and the Queen” offers a unique blend of historical insight and personal storytelling. The documentary not only highlights the Queen’s lesser-known passion for horses but also showcases the transformative power of compassion and friendship. The film’s archival footage provides a rare glimpse into the private lives of two remarkable individuals, making it a must-watch for those interested in history, royalty, and animal welfare.
For music lovers, the documentary’s soundtrack, featuring compositions that evoke the era and emotions of the story, adds another layer of depth to the viewing experience. The film’s ability to weave together different elements—historical footage, personal anecdotes, and a compelling narrative—demonstrates the power of documentary filmmaking to educate and inspire.
Watch the trailer
To get a sneak peek of this captivating documentary, watch the trailer for The Cowboy and the Queen.
By exploring the intersection of royalty and cowboy culture, “The Cowboy and the Queen” offers a fresh perspective on the lives of two seemingly disparate individuals united by a shared mission. This documentary is a testament to the enduring impact of compassion and the transformative power of friendship.