Must-Watch Family-Friendly Horse Racing Movies this Holiday Season
Written by Mary-Courtney Combs
As the weather gets colder and the sun sets earlier, you may find yourself curled on the couch looking for a movie to watch. With various streaming options available and millions of movies, the opportunities are endless! But if you love Thoroughbred horses or have an interest in equine jobs, might I suggest a family-friendly horse movie that you can actually learn from? I watched three horse racing-themed movies that I have never seen before, and here are my honest reviews and takeaways from each one:
Dreamhorse
Synopsis – The movie “Dreamhorse” is based on a true story, and set in a (VERY) small Welsh village in the United Kingdom called Cefn Fforest, We get a look into the life of Jan Vokes, who seems bored with her mundane everyday routine until she decides to breed a Thoroughbred mare and raise a racehorse named Dream Alliance. Jan forms a racing syndicate with her neighbors and other people in the town. Together, they invest their time, money, and unwavering determination into training Dream Alliance. With the odds stacked against him to become a successful racehorse, Dream Alliance races and captures the hearts of the community.
Learning Takeaways – The entire movie offers insights into the world of steeplechase horse racing, from the care and training of horses to the mechanics of racing events. It also shows some of the highs and lows of horse ownership. Take special note of the part where Jan forms a syndicate with her community. A horse racing syndicate allows a multitude of people to own a percentage of a racehorse while sharing in the cost. Community members come together to invest in Dream Alliance, and everyone learns about the financial responsibilities that are included.
Review – Dreamhorse is a heartfelt move that highlights the dream involved in breeding, owning, and racing a Thoroughbred, along with the resilience and hope that it takes to overcome challenges that can arise. Even though buying a racehorse is not necessarily as easy as building a shed in your backyard for your new mare, Dreamhorse is based on a true story, so you never know what can happen. Want to watch a more realistic depiction of Dream Alliance’s story? Check out the documentary “Dark Horse: The Incredible True Story of Dream Alliance.”
Ride Like a Girl
Synopsis – “Ride Like a Girl” tells the true story of Michelle Payne, the first female jockey to win the Melbourne Cup in Australia, the country’s most famous horse race. The movie follows Michelle's journey from a young girl with a passion for horse racing, to her struggle to break gender barriers in the sport. Facing adversity and numerous setbacks, she pushes through with the support of her family. Michelle's resilience, determination, and the strong bond within her family lead her to achieve her dream and make history in the world of horse racing.
Learning Takeaways – Watching Ride Like a Girl gives you an in-depth behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a jockey. It requires more than showing up to a track and asking to breeze a trainer’s horse. Building strength and making weight, not getting discouraged, and growing trainer clientele in order to have horses to ride in races are all challenges that Michelle faces along the way. The movie depicts the highs, lows, and dangers of riding a Thoroughbred racehorse running at speeds of 40 miles-per-hour. While riding horses on a beach is not a common practice for race day preparation in the United States (it actually is in Australia!), the movie accurately portrays the challenges that all jockeys go through to race ride, and the struggle female riders can face to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
Review – Out of all three movies, Ride Like A Girl was my favorite. It is a great balance of drama, humor, and inspiration all wrapped into what can simply be described as a feel-good film. It celebrates the power of perseverance and the breaking of gender barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport. The movie is not just about horse racing; it's a story of empowerment, family support, and triumph. I promise you will walk away feeling inspired.
The Black Stallion
Synopsis – “The Black Stallion” is based on a famous series of books by the author Walter Farley. The movie tells the story of a boy named Alec and a horse that saves his life after a shipwreck. Alec and the horse are stranded on a deserted island, but together they form a bond. Alec earns the horse’s trust, calling him The Black, and eventually rides him (in an inspirational scene on the beach, I might add). The boy and horse are rescued off the island by a fishing boat and they find their way back to the US, where Alec meets a retired jockey, Henry, and boards The Black at his barn. Henry recognizes The Black’s speed and trains Alex as a jockey in hopes that they can run in a match race against two of the top Thoroughbred racehorses in the sport. Fun fact: Henry is played by legendary actor Mickey Rooney, who also starred in another famous horse racing movie, “National Velvet,” released in 1944.
Learning Takeaways – While The Black Stallion is not a true story, nor may it seem as close to reality as our other two films, there is still a lot to learn about dedication and trust – important characteristics of good horsemanship. The movie depicts a bit about conditioning a racehorse and doing a timed workout, along with the exciting buildup and promotion of a big race. Alec and Henry both demonstrate patience during The Black’s training process, as he is a rather temperamental horse. Finally, Henry develops into a mentor for Alex, guiding him in the pursuit of his dream equine career.
Review – The Black Stallion is a heartwarming, beautifully portrayed story that has everything you are looking for in a family film about horses. The inspiring nature of Alec connecting with The Black, and together softening the heart of Henry will have everyone on the couch wanting to go train a wild horse! (But please do so responsibly!). This movie is absolutely captivating. Whether you are a horse enthusiast or simply enjoy a great story, this movie will be sure to leave a lasting impression.
There you have it! Three horse films to choose from this holiday season. Whether you are wanting to learn more about horse racing, be entertained, or even shed a tear of joy, these movies have it all! Make a cup of cocoa and enjoy!
Ready for more information about equine careers? Learn about Amplify’s horse programs for youth to help you get started!