This movie is the "Rocky" of animal pictures. Based on a true story, it made me want to go and do a little research on the real Phar Lap. Your emotions will span the scale while you watch this movie. It doesn't have an all star cast...or even a recognizable one, but this movie is worth a rental fee or purchase.

The movie opens with Phar Lap's death in 1932 Menlo Park, California. Back in 1928 Sydney, Phar Lap is unloaded from a ship. His trainer Harry Telford is a true believer. His new owner David Davis is not impressed and orders the horse be sold. In desperation, Telford offers to lease the horse for 3 years. Telford has barely enough money. He thinks the horse is lazy and works it hard. Stable hand Tommy Woodcock complains and immediately gets fired. When the horse refuses to eat, Woodcock is rehired. After early losses, Phar Lap becomes a celebrated horse in depression Australia.

This is the definition of traditional. It doesn't have anything exciting. The human characters are lackluster. This is more about the horse but this is no Disney movie either. The story unfolds but there is no tension and no thrills. It is beautifully shot and the horse racing looks gorgeous. Otherwise, it's rather bland.

Interesting true story, the story of Australia's greatest racehorse. Gives and insight into the history of the horse and its rise to fame. Also shows the impact on the humans involved - the owner, trainers, racing authorities and, quite importantly, the general Australian population. Some very heart-warming moments.

Maybe a bit too join-the-dots as far as plot goes, but this does not detract too much from the entertainment.

Great performance by Martin Vaughan as Phar Lap's curmudgeony trainer, Harry Telford. Good work too from Tom Burlinson, in only his second cinema movie.