When it comes to the sport of horse racing, it’s not just a game – it’s a superb plot for many movies. Some of these films have galloped ahead to win awards, meanwhile leaving a mark on cinema history. Let’s cut into the world of horse racing films to discover which ones have received the most recognition.
Seabiscuit (2003)
Starting on top, Seabiscuit Directed by Gary Boss is a film, originally adapted from Laura Hillenbrand‘s book ‘Seabiscuit: An American Legend’. The film gained a whopping seven Oscar nominations at the 76th Academy Awards, along with a total of six wins and forty-four nominations. It boasts a notable cast including Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges, and Elizabeth Banks, to tell the inspiring tale of an underestimated racehorse that defies all odds to become a champion. The heartwarming story covers a combination of friendship and devotion while focusing on the process of healing fractured lives during the challenging years of the Great Depression. Beyond its gripping storyline, Seabiscuit reached worldwide audiences and made approximately 150 million dollars at the box office. To this day, it could be argued that it stands as the best horse racing film ever made.
Jockey (2021)
Securing the second spot, the film ‘Jockey’ notched up four wins and earned a remarkable nine nominations. Directed by Cliff Bentley, this film offers an insight into the life of an old male Jockey, who tries his hardest to win just one last time. The struggling jockey tries to mentor a young man claiming to be his son while introducing him to the world of horse racing. The movie successfully portrays the demands of the horse racing profession through the viewpoint of the rider, while dipping into themes such as legacy, struggle, and resilience. It sheds light on those who dedicate their lives to horse racing, and certainly deserves the awards it gained!
Secretariat (2010)
Taking third place with three wins and six nominations is ‘Secretariat’. This film featuring actors like Dylan Walsh, Diane Wane and John Malkovich earned approximately sixty million dollars on a thirty-five million dollar budget. The film’s narrative revolves around a housewife and mother Penny (played by Helen Bates), who takes management of her father’s thoroughbred horse farm. Despite her inexperience, she manages her way through the male-dominated horse racing business and wins the first Triple Crown in twenty-five years. This film explores the power of determination and belief, and pleasantly portrays the bond between humans and horses. It’s no wonder it gained favourable reviews from critics!
Phar Lap (1983)
With 4 wins and 5 nominations, ‘Phar Lap’ takes its place in this lineup. Directed by Simon Wincer, this story follows the life of a legendary Australian racehorse. This film starts with the end and flashes back to the day the horse Phar Lap was bought by a trainer. He loses the first race, but the trainer keeps his hope and faith and gives everything until he makes it. The movie takes a turn when Phar Laps enters several top races, achieving a long-shot victory. However, it comes to a tragic end, just after a victory in Mexico, the horse collapses and dies. Featuring Tom Burlinson and Tommy Woodcock, the film captures the ups and downs of a horse racing career, and goes above and beyond the racetrack, showing the resilience involved.
Champions (1984)
Aside from what the name would suggest, Champions takes last place with 1 win and 1 nomination. The 1984 film directed by John Irvin follows a true story of a British jockey diagnosed with cancer. Instead of giving in to the disease, Bob recovers miraculously and goes on to win the 1981 Grand National. The movie unfolds against the iconic backdrop of Aintree Racecourse which is the biggest horse racing venue in the UK, where individuals bet on Grand National. Set in this prestigious venue, ‘Champions’ not only explores the fierce world of horse racing but also navigates the tough battle of cancer. Overall, it beautifully captures the themes of resilience, strength, and hope.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through horse racing films, it becomes clear why these films have been recognized. They tell stories of races through heartfelt narratives, with the use of recurring themes. It can be concluded that horse racing as a subject not only provides inspiration for filmmakers, but is a timeless muse for creating award-winning films.
