Round Top Film Festival 2026
I met Jonnie Jonckowski about an hour before the screening of Jonnie at the Round Top Film Festival. I knew absolutely nothing about her or her accomplishments. By the time the documentary ended, I was thoroughly impressed. What an extraordinary woman, and what a life she’s led!
Jonnie was a world-class athlete with dreams of competing in the Olympics as a pentathlete. A serious back injury ended those plans, but that certainly didn’t stop her. Instead, she turned her attention to bull riding. Yes, bull riding! Not exactly the first sport that comes to mind when you’re looking for something to do after a back injury. She went on to become a two-time world champion, competing in a sport dominated by men at a time when women weren’t exactly welcome in the arena.
Director Sabrina Lee takes us through Jonnie’s remarkable career and the many challenges she faced. Through archival footage, interviews, and scenes from her life today, we see the determination that drove her to succeed. Some of the footage is frightening, particularly when we learn about the catastrophic injuries she suffered. Her face and body took an incredible beating, and I found myself wondering how anyone could endure so much and continue doing what she loved.
What struck me most was Jonnie herself. She’s five years older than I am, and she looks amazing, especially considering the injuries and physical hardships she’s endured. Having met her before the screening, I would never have imagined the experiences this woman had survived. She’s attractive, personable, and clearly not someone who gives up easily.
The documentary goes well beyond her accomplishments in the rodeo arena. Jonnie has faced personal hardships and heartbreak along with the physical injuries. Yet she keeps finding things worth doing, including rescuing horses and helping others in her community. She founded Angel Horses, Inc., a Montana nonprofit that gives rescued horses and donkeys a second chance while providing comfort and companionship to seniors, veterans, cancer patients, and children with special needs. I particularly liked the idea that these animals, many of which have endured hardships of their own, are now helping people through theirs. It’s a wonderful extension of the compassion and determination that have defined so much of Jonnie’s life. Apparently, sitting around feeling sorry for herself has never been much of an option.
I particularly appreciated the archival footage. Watching Jonnie climb aboard those enormous bulls, knowing what could happen when things went wrong, gave me an entirely new appreciation for the courage involved. And doing it as a woman in a sport where men ruled the arena made her accomplishments all the more impressive.
Jonnie is a well-told documentary about a remarkable woman whose tenacity and determination have carried her through experiences that might have defeated others. I enjoyed learning about her life, and having met her beforehand made the film that much more meaningful. There is a powerful message here about perseverance, but what impressed me most was the woman herself. She simply refuses to quit.
For those who missed the screening, Jonnie is available to stream on PBS through November 29, 2026. I recommend taking the time to watch it.