“A Brutal, Beautiful Life” by Beau Gaughran
This is the story of four species. - dog, horse, cow, human – and the confluence of their lives on the range, in the mountains and high desert. This is a story about tiny moments of understanding and connection, unseen by most, appreciated by few. These moments are rich with meaning and speak to connecting with nature in a way that honors intuition and experience.
FROM THE DIRECTOR
“Ranching is a way of life that binds people, animals, and the land in a profound, often untold connection. In making this film, we wanted to peel back the layers of the ranching world to reveal the dance between humans, horses, dogs, and cattle. This life is both beautiful and brutal, and these women ranchers embody resilience, grace, and a relentless commitment to the land and animals they steward. This story isn’t just about ranching—it's about grounded respect for the cycles of nature and the wisdom that can be found in our relationships with animals.
Through this film, I hope viewers feel the pulse of life on the range and the powerful bond that drives these women to carry on a tradition that demands strength, skill, and heart. This film aims to shed light on the women who face both the trials and triumphs of ranching life with grit and grace.”
-Beau Gaughran
CREDITS
Director, DoP, and Editor// Beau Gaughran
Executive Producer// Trust, Sarah Brannan
Writer and Producer// Maddy Butcher
Sound Design// Colton Jackson
Color// Filip Kotsishevskiy
CAST
Vicki Taussig (narrator)
Caitlyn Taussig
Sheldonna Zwicker
Maddy Butcher
Sarah Bangert
Taylor Hammack
Bailey Monnahan
Jessica Munn
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