Was the calf being born scene in city slickers real?

Answer 1

In a poignant scene where a cow gives birth to a calf, both a real and fake cow were used. A real cow lying on her side was filmed in a medium distance shot. Then, in extreme close-up, a fake cow, designed by special effects, was used. A non-toxic gel was applied to a six-day-old calf, then the character Mitch pulled the calf out of the fake cow. (Mitch forms a special bonding with this calf, whom he names Norman). This scene was accomplished in one take. The young calf was kept warm with blankets and heaters and bottle fed.