This article is about the best movies with horses you will want to watch again and again!
Horses, with their grace, strength, and untamed spirit, have captivated human hearts for centuries. The silver screen, too, has paid homage to these majestic creatures through the many films that beautifully showcase the bond between man and horse. From heartwarming tales of friendship to riveting stories of racing triumphs, horse movies have a timeless appeal. In this blog post, we’ll gallop through the cinematic landscape and explore the top 25 best movie with horses that have left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.
What makes the best movie with horses?
The best horse movies, like any film, involves a combination of various elements that come together to create a compelling and memorable viewing experience. Here are some key factors that contribute to a memorable horse movie:
Authentic Representation of Horses: A great horse movie accurately portrays the behavior, characteristics, and relationship dynamics between humans and horses. Attention to detail in depicting horse movements, communication, and mannerisms adds authenticity and enhances the audience’s connection with the film.
Compelling Storytelling: A strong narrative with well-developed characters is crucial for any movie’s success, including horse movies. Engaging storytelling that explores themes such as friendship, loyalty, perseverance, and the human-animal bond contributes to the emotional resonance of the film.
Beautiful Cinematography: Horses are inherently graceful and majestic creatures, and a great horse movie leverages this by incorporating stunning cinematography. Capturing the beauty of horses in various landscapes, whether it’s the open range, racetrack, or stable, adds visual appeal and elevates the overall viewing experience.
Strong Performances:
Convincing performances from the cast, both human and equine, are essential. The actors’ ability to convey genuine emotions, especially when interacting with horses, enhances the film’s authenticity. Additionally, well-trained horses contribute significantly to the success of horse movies.
Emotional Resonance:
Great horse movies evoke a range of emotions in the audience, from joy and excitement to empathy and sadness. Whether it’s the triumph of an underdog horse, the bond between a rider and their steed, or the challenges faced by these characters, emotional depth adds a layer of connection that makes the film memorable.
Historical or Cultural Significance:
Some of the best horse movies draw inspiration from historical events, legendary horses, or cultural traditions related to horses. Exploring these aspects can provide context and depth to the story, making it more enriching for viewers.
Soundtrack and Atmosphere:
A well-composed soundtrack enhances the mood and atmosphere of a movie. In horse movies, music that complements the equestrian theme can elevate key scenes. Whether it’s a thrilling race or a poignant moment of connection between a horse and its rider.
In essence, a great horse movie combines these elements to create a cinematic experience that not only celebrates the beauty and spirit of horses but also tells a compelling and emotionally resonant story.
Most of these movies are available to watch on Amazon. I may earn a commission with Amazon Affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links, at no extra cost to you.
Top 21 Best movie with horses (In No Particular Order)
Kicking off our list is the inspiring tale of an undersized racehorse that became a symbol of hope during the Great Depression. “Seabiscuit” combines stellar performances with breathtaking cinematography, making it a must-watch for horse lovers and history buffs alike. One of the best horse racing movies will have you standing up cheering!
Steven Spielberg’s “War Horse” takes us on an emotional journey through World War I, narrated from the perspective of a horse named Joey. This epic war drama not only showcases the loyalty between a horse and its owner but also highlights the impact of war on both humans and animals. The main character “Albert” enlists in the First World War after his horse is sold to the calvary.
Based on Walter Farley’s classic novel, “The Black Stallion” is a visually stunning film that follows the friendship between a young boy and a wild Arabian horse stranded on a deserted island. The film’s cinematography and the bond between the protagonists make it a timeless gem. There have been a few movies made about the Black Stallion novel, but this version is the best. One of my favorite memories was renting this movie as a child, Watching the boy and horse running down the beach bareback and with no bridle on is epic!
“Hidalgo” transports us to the Arabian Desert in this action-packed adventure inspired by the life of long-distance rider Frank T. Hopkins and his mustang, Hidalgo. The film combines breathtaking desert landscapes with thrilling race sequences. Definitely one of my all-time favorite movies that I can watch again and again. The actor Viggo Mortensen who plays cowboy (Frank Hopkins) actually purchased the paint horse that played the main character in the movie. The bond between them in this movie is amazing to see.
Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron (2002):
DreamWorks Animation brings the tale of a wild mustang named Spirit to life, exploring the untamed spirit of horses and their struggle for freedom. With its captivating animation and a soundtrack featuring Bryan Adams, “Spirit” is a treat for audiences of all ages. I have watched this movie many, many times. My kids loved this movie and still do. This movie will make you cry, and you’ll be rooting for this Mustang the whole time. Definitely a family favorite.
Directed by and starring Robert Redford, “The Horse Whisperer” delves into the world of equine therapy. Although this movie doesn’t go into detail on how horse whispering works. The Horse Whisperer” is about a man of great patience, faced with a woman, a child and a horse in great need of it. It evokes the healing serenity of wide-open spaces. Redford plays a horse trainer who heals both horses and humans, emphasizing the transformative power of understanding and trust.
A classic, “National Velvet” stars Elizabeth Taylor as a young girl who trains a horse to compete in the Grand National steeplechase. This heartwarming film explores themes of determination, dreams, and the bond between a girl and her horse.
“Secretariat” chronicles the true story of the legendary racehorse and his owner, Penny Chenery. With remarkable performances and thrilling race sequences, this film celebrates the exceptional athleticism and heart of one of the greatest racehorses in history.
Jan works at a local pub and overhears a business meeting about the ins and outs of horse racing. She has an idea, but the expenses are more than she could afford. She convinces a group of friends to pledge £10 per week to the venture. Some of her backers are unemployed, and all know that the odds are against them. And Jan isn’t proposing to buy a horse, mind you. She’s starting from square one.
The Man from Snowy River (1982):
Set in the Australian mountains, this film tells the story of a young man’s journey to prove himself as a skilled horseman. The young cowboy who inherits his father’s ranch in the rugged Snowy River country. The local ranchers all believe he’s too young to work the land. At about the same time, he falls in love with the daughter of the local rich man. Who forbids his daughter to see the young cowboy. It’s known for its breathtaking landscapes and thrilling horse-riding sequences. There is some great aerial photography of thundering herds of horses, and the invigorating grandeur of the Australian landscape.
Racing Stripes might not be winning any Oscars, but it is a fun movie with horses to watch with the kids. It’s a story about a zebra who is lost on the side of the road. He then lives at a farm by a racetrack in Kentucky. The zebra aspires to become a racehorse. The film explores themes of friendship and perseverance, making it an enjoyable watch for audiences of all ages.
Based on Elyne Mitchell’s novel, this Australian film follows the life of a wild silver-colored brumby and his encounters with a determined horseman. The movie celebrates the beauty of the Australian Alps and the free spirit of the brumbies.
The Young Black Stallion (2003):
A prequel to “The Black Stallion,” this visually stunning film follows the adventures of a young girl and a black Arabian horse in the North African desert. It’s known for its captivating cinematography and heartwarming story. If you’re in the mood for a beautiful movie with horses that is great for the kids this one is a winner.
The movie begins with Robert Redford in the process of downfall. He plays a former five-time national champion rodeo cowboy named Sonny, who has retired from competition. This film tells the story of a former rodeo champion who steals a racehorse to set it free. He rides down the Vegas strip, and out into the desert. It’s a mix of comedy, drama, and romance with a strong message about animal welfare.
Justin Morgan Had a Horse (1972):
This Disney film is based on the true story of the founding sire of the Morgan horse breed. It follows the journey of a young boy and his horse, showcasing their determination and the historical significance of the Morgan breed.
A sequel to “National Velvet,” this film stars Tatum O’Neal as the niece of the original film’s protagonist. It follows her journey as she trains for the Olympic equestrian team with her horse, Arizona Pie. I really like this movie with horses. Me and my 13 year old daughter were cracking up laughing.
This critically acclaimed film blurs the lines between fiction and reality as it follows a rodeo rider recovering from a near-fatal injury. The movie features real-life rodeo stars and horses, adding a layer of authenticity to the storytelling.
This drama portrays the rehabilitation of a violent convict through a program that involves training wild mustangs. The film explores the transformative power of the human-horse connection and the healing potential of working with animals.
If you are on the lookout to watch a heartwarming family movie with horses, Dreamer is a top choice. It has a great cast: Dakota Fanning as young Cale Crane, Kurt Russell as her father Ben, and Kris Kristofferson as her grandfather Pop. It follows the story of a broken racehorse that comes back to take on the Breeder’s Cup Classic. While it may be a bit on the cliché side, if you are looking for a feel good movie you can definitely count on Dreamer to get the job done.
If you loved the original from 1943 then you will surely love this 2006 reboot too, as it retells the story of a broken teenager that wishes to defy her father and spend her days with a wild Mustang that she found herself. Fearing for his daughter’s safety, her father takes the horse away, but Katy is not going to stand for this, she will embark on a treacherous journey, risking her own life for the sake of bringing Flicka back home.
Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken (1991):
This movie takes place during the depression, an orphan teenage girl runs away when her aunt threatens to be put in an institution. She joins up with a circus and works as a stable hand. This is an unbelievable true story of a girl who becomes an act in a circus and risks her life performing with diving horses.
Movie with horses conclusion
From the dusty trails of the Wild West to the grandeur of the racing tracks, horse movies offer a diverse array of stories that resonate with audiences on a deep and emotional level. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or simply appreciate the beauty of these magnificent creatures, these top 21 horse movies promise an unforgettable cinematic experience.
What is your favorite movie with horses? I love all of them, but I have a special place for Hidalgo in my heart. I loved watching it with my kids and my daughter had to have a Paint horse after seeing this movie. When she was little, she always said how cute the horse was. She’s had her beautiful Paint horse Sweety for many years and continues to love Paint horses most of all.
If you love horse movies please check out this post on The Magic of a Movie with Horses: The Best Horse Movies to Watch here.
Also check out some other articles about horses…
What in the World are Cold Blooded horses?
Cowgirl Quotes to Inspire and Motivate You
I hope you enjoyed this round-up of my favorite movies with horses. Be sure to share and save a pin for later!
