Horse Racing Movies You Shouldn’t Miss
Horse racing, one of the oldest sports globally, is rich in history and tradition, and this is often reflected in movies. Fortunately for fans of the sport, there are many horse racing films, including big-budget blockbusters.
Why focus on horse racing films? Movies are about telling extraordinary stories, and the Sport of Kings is filled with remarkable, often underdog tales of horses overcoming the odds to achieve greatness. These films also explore the deep, unspoken bond between humans and these magnificent animals.
If you’re in the mood for horse racing excitement or emotional stories, here are some must-watch films.
1. National Velvet (1944)
Starring: Elizabeth Taylor, Mickey Rooney
We begin with a classic that might not be the first choice for many, but its lasting popularity is well-deserved. The film tells the story of Velvet Brown, a young girl determined to race her horse, The Pie, in the Grand National—one of the toughest races in the world. At a time when women were not typically seen in elite sports, Velvet’s perseverance made her story unforgettable. Elizabeth Taylor’s performance made this film a significant part of Hollywood history, earning a place in the U.S. National Film Registry for its cultural impact.
2. Secretariat (2010)
Starring: Diane Lane, John Malkovich
No list of horse racing films would be complete without Secretariat, one of the fastest and most legendary racehorses. The film tells the story of Secretariat’s record-breaking triumphs, highlighting not just the horse but also his owner, Penny Chenery, who overcame gender barriers to achieve success in a male-dominated world. Secretariat’s victory in the 1973 Triple Crown still stands as a legendary achievement.
3. Seabiscuit (2003)
Starring: Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges
An underdog story at its best, Seabiscuit follows a small, overlooked horse that became a symbol of hope during the Great Depression. The film chronicles his rise to fame with trainer Tom Smith and jockey Red Pollard, combining thrilling racing scenes with a heartwarming narrative. Based on Laura Hillenbrand’s best-selling book, it earned seven Academy Award nominations and grossed over $148 million worldwide.
4. Phar Lap (1983)
Starring: Tom Burlinson, Judy Morris
Phar Lap is a tear-jerker about the rise of the legendary racehorse from New Zealand who dominated Australian tracks in the 1930s. His mysterious death adds a tragic twist to his inspiring story, making the film both emotional and captivating.
5. 50 to 1 (2014): The Ultimate Underdog Story
A true underdog tale, 50 to 1 follows Mine That Bird, a 50-1 longshot who won the 2009 Kentucky Derby, defying all expectations. This movie features a group of quirky New Mexican owners and a cowboy trainer who bring their humble horse to the world’s most famous racetrack.
6. Dreamer (2005)
Starring: Kurt Russell, Dakota Fanning
Loosely inspired by the true story of Mariah’s Storm, Dreamer is a family-friendly drama about a trainer and his daughter who nurse an injured racehorse back to health. The heartwarming film takes creative liberties but delivers a feel-good experience for viewers of all ages.
7. Let It Ride (1989)
Starring: Richard Dreyfuss
Not all horse racing films focus on the horses. Let It Ride is a comedic take on the gambling world, following Jay Trotter, a man who experiences an improbable streak of wins at the racetrack. It’s a light-hearted and humorous contrast to the more emotional dramas on this list.
Final Thoughts
These films offer a mix of emotional depth, thrilling underdog stories, real-life tales, and betting action, providing something for every horse racing fan.