Seabiscuit 2003

‘Seabiscuit’ is based on a true story of an underdog but majestic racing horse that inspired a generation through the 1930s. During the 1930s, the Great Depression crippled the U.S. (and global) economy, causing people to lose their homes, life savings, and hope. The legendary story of Seabiscuit, the thoroughbred horse that takes on the champion horse War Admiral, was one of the shining moments in American sports history that brought people heartwarming hope. I think Seabiscuit’s story resonated so well in the 1930s because it gave people the belief that if a horse (and his jockey, Red) can overcome challenges when given a second chance in life, so can anyone.

The cast includes notables like Tobey Maguire as Seabiscuit’s jockey Red Pollard, Jeff Bridges & Elizabeth Banks as the owners Charles & Marcela Howard, and Chris Cooper as the trainer, Tom. But the real hero was Seabiscuit, who was depicted by ten actor horses. His previous owners said Seabiscuit was too little and too lazy to race, so they primarily used him to help build the confidence of other horses deemed proper for racing. He went years through his prime age being misused and mistreated. However, he was discovered by Howard and Tom when they noticed his fierce nature and the fight in him, even while being used as a failed horse. Howard hired Red as the jockey, whose story had similarities to Seabiscuit, and the two helped each other regain their dignity and spirit. Seabiscuit reached his potential at an older age, which limited the length of his career and which races he was eligible for by rule. All the characters have compelling stories, issues, and challenges they overcome through perseverance and conviction.

Would I recommend this? Yes, I believe it’s an inspiring film of determination and triumph against the odds. There are obvious inconsistencies, such as the fact that both Seabiscuit and ‘War Admiral’ came from the same line of arguably the greatest horse ever in Man O’ War. Both were also the same size. The film intentionally altered both facts to build Seabiscuit up into a much bigger underdog, even though he was one. Seabiscuit simply reached maturity later than normal. Regardless, the director and writers did a great job of bringing Seabiscuit to life. Seabiscuit is an exhilarating ride and a joy to watch.