The Horse Whisperer *** (1998, Robert Redford, Kristin Scott Thomas, Sam Neill, Scarlett Johansson, Dianne Wiest, Chris Cooper, Cherry Jones, Kate Bosworth) – Classic Film Review 692

Based on the bestselling novel by Nicholas Evans, this is plush, graceful film-making by director Robert Redford in 1999.

Young teenager Grace (Scarlett Johansson) is horrendously wounded and traumatised after a disturbing horse-riding accident and her horse is similarly afflicted. Her mother, ambitious New York magazine editor Annie (Kristin Scott Thomas) takes the girl and horse to Montana to see a legendary horse doctor-trainer, Tom Booker (Redford), whom she soon falls for.

Redford directs this posh and plush old-style romantic drama at a stately but compelling pace. And, if this tearful chick flick works as well as it does, it’s mainly because the performances are spot on, with Thomas outstanding. All her scenes with Redford are particularly resonant and poignant. The young Johansson makes a strong impression, too.

© Derek Winnert 2014 Classic Film Review 692 derekwinnert.com