Craig T. Nelson shines as Buck, a notorious and stubbornly traditional dairy farmer, in "Green and Gold," directed by Anders Lindwall. Despite a predictable plot, Nelson's performance immortalizes the financially-stricken farmer who refuses to modify his traditional farming methods. Trapped in debts, Buck stakes his farm in a desperate attempt to resurrect it.
Buck's stubborn nature is a trait neither Nelson nor Lindwall aim to soften. His unyielding love for his wife, Margaret, and granddaughter, Jenny, is comparable to his devotion to the Green Bay Packers. However, his obstinate attitude hinders him from embracing any technological advancements in his farming methods.
Buck's resistance to change has led to a deficit in his financial health, threatening foreclosure of his farm by an unsympathetic banker. Despite the mounting pressures, Buck insists on staying firm and persuades Jenny to put her dreams of becoming a successful singer-songwriter on hold.
"Green and Gold" may lack surprises, but it makes up for it with a blend of a Hallmark movie plot and a nostalgic save-the-farm drama. The film introduces an element of suspense when Buck wagers with the banker that if the Green Bay Packers win the Super Bowl, his farm foreclosure will be delayed for a year without any interest. Despite its clichés, the film successfully highlights the common situations and attitudes in rural American communities.
However, the ending feels forced and excessively uplifting. Despite the cliché-ridden story, Nelson's stellar performance as Buck uplifts the movie.
