Horse racing has been a popular sport for centuries, and it’s no surprise that it has inspired some great movies over the years. From heartwarming tales of underdogs to thrilling depictions of famous races, there’s something for everyone in the genre of horse racing movies.
Whether you’re a fan of the sport or just love a good story, horse racing movies offer an exciting and emotional experience. Some of the best movies in the genre are based on true stories, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the drama. With so many great films to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best horse racing movies ever made. From classics like National Velvet to more recent hits like Secretariat, we’ll explore the films that have captured the hearts of audiences around the world. So, grab some popcorn and settle in for a cinematic journey through the world of horse racing.
Classics
Some of the best horse racing movies are considered classics. These timeless films have stood the test of time and have become beloved by generations of moviegoers. Two of the most popular classics are National Velvet and Seabiscuit.
National Velvet
National Velvet is a classic horse racing movie that was released in 1944. The film follows a young girl named Velvet Brown, played by Elizabeth Taylor, who dreams of winning the Grand National steeplechase. With the help of her trainer, Mi Taylor, played by Mickey Rooney, Velvet trains and prepares her horse, The Pie, for the big race. The film is a heartwarming story about determination, perseverance, and the bond between humans and animals.
Seabiscuit
Seabiscuit is another classic horse racing movie that was released in 2003. The film is based on the true story of Seabiscuit, a racehorse that became a national sensation during the Great Depression. The movie follows the journey of Seabiscuit and his jockey, Red Pollard, played by Tobey Maguire, as they rise to fame and compete in some of the most prestigious horse races in the world. The film is a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and the human spirit.
Both National Velvet and Seabiscuit are timeless classics that have inspired and entertained audiences for generations. These films are a must-watch for any horse racing enthusiast or movie lover.
Modern Films
While some of the best horse racing movies were made in the past, there are a few modern films that have also made their mark in the genre. These movies have been able to capture the excitement, drama, and thrill of horse racing, while also offering a fresh perspective on the sport. Here are some of the best modern horse racing films:
Secretariat
Based on the true story of the legendary racehorse, Secretariat is a 2010 film that documents the career of the Triple Crown winner. The movie follows the journey of Penny Chenery, the owner of Secretariat, as she navigates the male-dominated world of horse racing and leads her horse to victory. The film has been praised for its stunning cinematography and powerful performances, particularly by Diane Lane who played Chenery.
Secretariat was a commercial success, grossing over $60 million at the box office, and was also well-received by critics. It was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song, and won the ESPY Award for Best Sports Movie.
Dreamer
Dreamer is a 2005 film that tells the story of a horse named Sonador, who suffers a career-ending injury but is given a second chance by her owner and trainer. The movie explores themes of redemption, perseverance, and the bond between humans and animals. It stars Kurt Russell, Dakota Fanning, and Kris Kristofferson.
Dreamer received mixed reviews from critics but was praised for its heartwarming story and strong performances. It was also a modest box office success, grossing over $33 million worldwide.
Phar Lap
Phar Lap is a 1983 Australian biographical film about the legendary racehorse of the same name. The movie tells the story of Phar Lap, a horse that went from being a poor performer to a champion. The film stars Tom Burlinson as the horse’s jockey and Martin Vaughan as his trainer. Phar Lap was directed by Simon Wincer and won several awards, including the AACTA Award for Best Film.
The film is a great example of Australian cinema, and it manages to capture the spirit of the country’s horse racing culture. The movie is also notable for its great cinematography and attention to detail. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in horse racing or Australian cinema.
The Cup
The Cup is a 2011 Australian biographical film about the racehorse Media Puzzle and his win in the 2002 Melbourne Cup. The movie stars Brendan Gleeson as the horse’s trainer and Stephen Curry as his jockey. The film was directed by Simon Wincer and won several awards, including the AACTA Award for Best Film.
The movie is a great example of the underdog story, as Media Puzzle was not expected to win the race due to his poor performance in previous races. The film also captures the excitement and intensity of the Melbourne Cup, one of the biggest horse racing events in the world. The Cup is a great movie for anyone interested in horse racing or sports movies in general.
Documentaries
Documentaries provide a unique insight into the world of horse racing, offering a glimpse into the lives of jockeys, trainers, and owners, as well as the horses themselves. Here are two of the best documentaries about horse racing:
Dark Horse
Dark Horse is a 2015 documentary that tells the remarkable true story of a group of working-class friends from a small Welsh village who decide to breed and raise a racehorse. Against all odds, their horse, Dream Alliance, goes on to become a champion, winning the Welsh Grand National in 2009. The film is a heartwarming and inspiring tale of perseverance and triumph over adversity and is a must-watch for anyone interested in horse racing.
Jockeys
Jockeys is a reality TV show that aired on Animal Planet from 2009 to 2011. The show follows the lives of several jockeys as they compete in races across the United States. It provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the world of horse racing, showing the dedication and hard work that goes into being a successful jockey. The show also explores the risks and dangers of the sport, as well as the close relationships that jockeys develop with their horses.
Overall, documentaries are a great way to learn more about horse racing and gain a deeper appreciation for the sport. They offer a unique perspective that is not often seen in feature films or TV shows, and provide a wealth of information about the horses, jockeys, and trainers that make the sport so exciting.
Conclusion
The world of horse racing has inspired many filmmakers to produce movies that capture the excitement, drama and thrill of the sport. From heartwarming tales of underdogs and their rise to glory to stories of legendary horses and their remarkable achievements, there is a horse racing movie for everyone.
Some of the most popular horse racing movies include “Secretariat”, “Phar Lap”, “National Velvet”, “Seabiscuit”, and “Dreamer”. Each of these movies offers a unique perspective on the sport of horse racing and showcases the incredible athleticism, determination, and spirit of both the horses and their riders.
Whether you are a fan of horse racing or simply enjoy a good sports movie, these films are sure to entertain and inspire. Overall, the best horse racing movies are those that tell a compelling story, feature memorable characters, and capture the excitement and passion of the sport. With so many great films to choose from, viewers are sure to find a movie that they will enjoy and remember for years to come.
