Secretariat - Movie review

Secretariat
U; DRAMA
Dir: Randall Wallace
Cast: Diane Lane, John Malkovich, Scott Glenn, James Cromwell
RATING: ''



What's it about: There's a racehorse named Secretariat, a father-daughter duo trying to save their ranch from being sold, and Disney's producing it, so you know what to expect! A mush fest about an underdog winning the race.
The flick has Diane Lane playing Penny Chener while John Malkovich plays her horse trainer. The movie is a journey of how destiny changes their fortunes all thanks to a horse that refuses to let go! Along the way you also get a firsthand account of what happens in the boundaries of a race course.

What's hot: Malkovich is superb as the quirky horse trainer who tests everyone's patience. Already a stalwart he always brings something new to the table. His scenes with Lane are most interesting. Scenes of Penny's interaction with the horse and even moments of doubt are well written and make the film more believable.

What's not: Problem is we've already had a Seabiscuit that had a great story and extraordinary performances. Secretariat tries to step into its shoes but fails. With Disney at the helm, it's understood there will be those larger than life moments wanting to tug your heart strings. Despite the sorry state of Penny and her dad you really don't connect with her ambition to put the horse in a race. The feel good moments don't last too long as the plot starts unravelling at its own pace.

What to do: Nothing to rave about. Watch at your own risk.