Four Films That Every Horse Lover Should Watch

Whether you’re lucky enough to own and ride them or admire them from afar, every horse lover enjoys settling down in front of the TV on a rainy day and watching equestrian-inspired films on screen.

Beautiful, emotive, and intelligent, it’s little wonder that horses make for such wonderful characters or create such compelling stories, so with this in mind, here are four films that every erstwhile equestrian and/or aspiring cowgirl will enjoy.

War Horse (2011)

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Inspired by the book and stage show of the same name, War Horse tells the beautiful and compelling story of Joey, a fiery and intelligent Thoroughbred who’s bought by the British army at the beginning of World War One.

Forced from the arms and heart of the teenager who has raised and loved him, it portrays its tragic tale of death and destruction through the eyes of one of life’s innocents.

If you don’t cry at its bittersweet close, you must be made of stone!

Seabiscuit (2003)

Seabiscuit is a great horse movie – Credit: Dreamworks Pictures

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Horseracing is big business, with millions of people placing bets via bookmakers each and every year.

With promotions and special offers shared through sites like BonusFinder UK, it’s a sport that anyone can become involved in, and this was never more evident than in depression-era America when even the poorest became swept up in the story of Seabiscuit.

An undersized and overlooked Thoroughbred who captured the heart of a nation, and became one of the greatest champions of all time, this is a touching tale of love, friendship, and the power of hope in the face of even the greatest adversity.

Secretariat (2010)

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Racehorses seem to hold a special appeal for filmmakers.

Drawn in by their dazzling charisma, their heart, and their majesty, their stories are ones of triumph against the odds, and there’s no tale more enchanting than that of Secretariat.

Affectionately known as ‘Big Red’, the striking chestnut started out as a most unlikely champion, but nonetheless went on to achieve absolute dominance on the racetrack.

Holding numerous records to this very day, he would go on to sire hundreds of foals and found a dynasty that will endure forever, but it’s his humble beginnings and the unwavering faith of his owner that are explored in this beautiful and empowering film.

We suggest you watch it when you next need to feel inspired.

The Horse Whisperer (1998)

Robert Redford in The Horse Whisperer – Credit: Touchstone Pictures

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Starring the acting talents of Robert Redford, Kristin Scott Thomas, Sam Neill, and a young Scarlett Johannsen, this often-tragic yet beautifully uplifting film is based on a book by Nicholas Evans.

Telling the tale of a young girl who falls victim to a horrific accident, The Horse Whisperer is about the mental scars that both she and her horse, Pilgrim, suffer as a result.

Following what happens after her parents enlist the help of a renowned trainer, Tom Booker, this is a story of love: between girl and horse, between man and woman, and between a family-driven in two by the tragedy that’s befallen them.

When it comes to finding the perfect movie to watch on a rainy afternoon or a cosy evening in, lucky equestrians are spoilt for choice.

Which of these four fantastic horse-based films will you watch first?

Let us know in the comments below.

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