Performance & Direction: The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky Review
Last updated: February 7, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky (1995) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky features a noteworthy lineup led by Sam Elliott . Supported by the likes of Jerry O'Connell and Ricky Jay , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky
Quick Plot Summary: The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky is a Drama, Western, TV Movie film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Ending Explained: The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky
Ending Breakdown: The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video with Ads
Shout! Factory Amazon ChannelThe Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky Parents Guide & Age Rating
1995 AdvisoryWondering about The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky is 92 minutes (1h 32m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.8/10, and global performance metrics, The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1995 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky worth watching?
The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.8/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky?
The total duration of The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky is 92 minutes, which is approximately 1h 32m long.
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Critic Reviews for The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky
A young man’s experiences in the forest service in Montana in 1919 RELEASED TO TV IN 1995 and directed by John Kent Harrison, "The Ranger, the Cook and a Hole in the Sky" chronicles events in the western Montana wilderness in 1919 where a cocky 17 year-old (Jerry O'Connell) in the forest service is guided by a seasoned ranger (Sam Elliott), conflicts with a card shark cook (Ricky Jay) and becomes infatuated by a cute girl (Molly Parker). There are only a few Western Staples, like the scenic landscapes, card games, a saloon fight and saloon girls (prostitutes). Other than that, this is a Wilderness Drama wherein a teen comes of age. It’s fairly family friendly and only hints at the worldly temptation youths will eventually face. The beauty of the wilderness is emphasized with the corresponding arduous hiking, camping, forest work, relationships and so forth. It’s a likable movie if this appeals to you and realistically low-key. THE MOVIE RUNS 1 hour 34 minutes and was shot in British Columbia, Canada. WRITERS: Norman Maclean (book) and Robert Wayne (teleplay). GRADE: B-/C+
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
