Horses are common extras in movies, despite the age-old rule that deems it unwise to work with animals.
However, equines are among the most respected animals to use in movies, as they are typically straightforward to work with and will follow the orders of their handlers.
Therefore, it is no surprise that some of the best movies and television shows have used the animal to showcase the narrative of their story. Watching horses on the big screen may not act as much of a education tool when studying betting odds but it will give potential fans of the equines a greater understanding of the animal’s more caring side. You can find more information about betting on horses here: https://www.twinspires.com/edge/racing/betting-info/horse-racing/
But, which films and television shows have used horses to best effect?
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Released in 2001, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring quickly became one of highest-grossing films of all-time.
The anticipated release is still regarded as one of the most influential films ever made, and this was acknowledged when it received 13 nominations at the 74th Academy Awards. One of the standout scenes in the first of the trilogy features horses, as Arwen (Liv Taylor) outrides the Nazgul.
John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum
John Wick is one of the most popular franchises in modern history, with Keanu Reeves starring as the title character. A star-studded cast features in the third release, including Halle Berry, Lance Reddick, and Laurence Fishburne.
The third film kicks off where the second ends, as Wick is attempting to escape a legion of hit-men after a bounty was placed on his head. In the film, there are a number of action sequences involving horses, which are even more impressive considering that Reeves learned how to complete the stunts himself before filming commenced. The film would achieve huge success, out-performing the first two releases inside just ten days.
Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron
The first of the films on this list that includes a horse as a central character is Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron. It was released in 2002, and it was directed by Lorna Cook and Kelly Ashbury.
The film is set in the Old West during the 19th century, and follows the story of the Matt Damon-voiced Spirit, who is a Kiger mustang stallion. During the American Indian Wars he is captured, before later being released by Little Creek.
The simple story transcended well in the box office, gaining $122 million globally, and it was also nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. A standout horse scene in the film comes in the forms of the train escape and the canyon chase.
Peaky Blinders
Peaky Blinders is widely considered to be one of the best modern-day television dramas. Created by Stephen Knight, it follows the story of the crime gang from Birmingham, and especially Tommy Shelby’s path to the top of British politics.
Cillian Murphy stars as the leading character, while Tom Hardy, Paul Anderson, and the late Helen McCrory also star. There are significant links to horses throughout the drama, transcendent of the power that Tommy was gaining.
As well as that, there are significant moments throughout the drama at the track. That includes a scene at Cheltenham races where the Shelby clan stop the Lee family from stealing money from Billy Kimber.
Tommy also buys a racehorse during a visit to Epsom Downs called Grace’s Secret. Fans are eagerly awaiting any update regarding the film, with the latest images released by Netflix earlier this year.
War Horse
One of the finest horse-related films ever released comes in the form of War Horse, which is based on Michael Morpurgo’s 1982 novel. An ensemble cast feature in the World War I epic, including Peter Mullan, Emily Watson, and Tom Hiddleston.
The film is unlike any other war movie, as it follows the life of Joey, who is an Irish Hunter. A fascinating insight into the war through the eyes of the horse ensures that it captures the attention of both war movie fans and equestrian lovers alike. The film was shot across 63 days in England by director Steven Spielberg, and the production used a staggering 300 horses.
Seabiscuit
There is no shortage of horse racing films, but Seabiscuit typically ranks as the best. The 2003 release based on the 1999 best-selling Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand, is based on the life and racing career of one of the most famous thoroughbreds in history.
His undersized appearance and the overlooked attitude towards him from experts ensured he became a global superstar when he won on track.
Despite his small stature, Seabiscuit was a symbol of hope during the Great Depression, winning significant races against the odds. The film was regarded a major success after being nominated for seven honours at the 76th Academy Awards.