Seabiscuit **** (2003, Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges, Chris Cooper, William H Macy) – Classic Movie Review 1101

Co-producer/writer/director Gary Ross’s 2003 lovingly crafted real-life adventure story/ sports drama stars the 28-year-old Tobey Maguire. He rides to victory as Red, a young drifter given a second chance by millionaire Charles Howard (Jeff Bridges) as his star jockey riding the title’s real-life legendary racehorse in 30s America.

This thoroughbred movie canters along in style to the finishing line thanks to its sleek old-style production, its generous spirit, warm heart and the winning performances. Chris Cooper is outstanding as the canny old trainer and William H Macy adds welcome humour as the radio sports presenter.

Yes, it’s corny and old-fashioned, but this heart-warming, highly welcome, surprise remake of Shirley Temple’s 1949 movie The Story of Seabiscuit is an undoubted galloping winner. Ross’s literate screenplay is based on the book Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand.

The film was shot at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California, Keeneland Race Course in Lexington, Kentucky, and Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York.

Maguire and Macy also worked together on Ross’s 1998 film Pleasantville. Ross also directed The Hunger Games (2012).

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© Derek Winnert 2014 Classic Movie Review 1101

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Seabiscuit winning the Santa Anita Handicap in 1940.

A statue of Seabiscuit was installed at Santa Anita Racetrack.