Horse-themed movies have made an appearance in Hollywood for some time now, much to the delight of avid horse lovers and equestrians. Motion pictures that cater to a horse-themed story have been around forever, but a few have produced a limelight of sorts on the bond between horse and rider/owner.
Horse movies are another way for equestrians and horse lovers to get their fill of all things horses, and many of these types of movies are family friendly that all can enjoy.
Without further to-do, here are the top 11 horse movies listed in no particular order.[social_warfare buttons=”Facebook,Pinterest,Twitter,Total”]
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1.The Black Stallion (1979)
The Black Stallion is a classic horse book that was made into a movie. The race at the end will have you cheering on The Black and young Alec Ramsey in a scene you’ll never forget. Both equestrians and non-equestrians can sit and enjoy a family friendly story that has been around for decades. The sequel The Black Stallion Returns
2. Hidalgo (2004)
Hidalgo is the story of a man and his horse and their quest to achieve the unlikely – the first American and his horse to win one of the toughest desert endurance rides in existence. This horse movie nurtures the special bond between man and his horse and is a must see.
3. Secretariat (2010)
Secretariat is a legend in the horse racing world. This amazing racehorse’s unbeaten track record is something everyone in the racing world strives for, especially winning the Triple Crown. This motion picture follows Secretariat from newborn foal to the champion that he is in a family friendly movie about this unforgettable equine.
4. National Velvet (1944)
National Velvet is a classic dating back to 1944! This movie stars young Elizabeth Taylor who plays Velvet Brown in the movie. She wins a horse via a lottery and works relentlessly to train him up into a champion. She herself learns some valuable lessons along the way too. A great family classic you have got to see.
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5. Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron (2002)
The animated motion picture Spirit has a lot for everyone to enjoy. This horse movie follows this wild stallion as his life intercepts that of humans and civilization on the Wild West. This movie also has a great soundtrack and the kids will love it!
6. The Horse Whisperer (1998)
The Horse Whisper features young cowboy Robert Redford who helps Scarlet Johansson and her horse recover from a terrible accident. This movie role was one of Scarlet’s firsts! This movie isn’t for the faint of heart so prepare for an emotional roller coaster in this epic horse movie.
7. Black Beauty (2004)
Black Beauty has had several different movie versions! This 2004 edition follows Black Beauty as you observe this beautiful horse and his different paths through life. This horse movie portrays the effects both good and bad owners can have on their horses. This is family friendly, eye-opening and totally worth a watch.
8. The Man from Snowy River (1982)
If I was trapped on a desert island and could only have ONE horse movie, The Man from Snowy River would be it. I saw this movie as a child and purchased it later in adulthood. It is a classic horse-centered tail (see what I did there?) and is a fantastic family movie too. There is also a sequel that I love just as much, called the Return To Snowy River
9. War Horse (2011)
Travel back to WWI in this heart-warming tale about a young man named Albert who tries to find his beloved horse after it was sold to the cavalry. Albert decides that the best way to find his horse is to enlist in the Army. His journey from his home to the front lines of one of the most horrific wars to find his horse will pull at your heart-strings. This is a horse movie that you will not soon forget.
10. Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken (1991)
After visiting the local fair, young Sonora decides that she wants to audition to become on of the high diver riders. These riders run their horses up huge ramps and leap off into a pool of water below. This is the story of a young girl who experiences what it is to truly be brave and determined. A classic movie all will love and enjoy!
11. Flicka (2006)
This is a feel-good father and daughter movie the entire family can enjoy. Young Katie McLaughlin falls for a wild horse named Flicka kept on the family’s ranch. Her father’s strict orders not to ride or go near Flicka are ignored as Katie sets out to prove to her father that she can do the impossible. This move also has a great soundtrack!
There are many other horse movies in existence, and this list has some of the most popular and widely seen horse movies on the market today.
Equestrians, horse owners, riders, families, and even people who aren’t truly interested in horses can enjoy some of these motion pictures. Experience the lives and stories of horses and the people that love and care for them.