by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
Who doesn’t love an underdog story? How about an under-horse story? That doesn’t sound right… let’s just stick with underdog! We love the story of someone or something that is unexpected and embodies low expectations who then overcomes insurmountable odds to be successful. What a story! We have certainly seen plenty of these types of stories on the big screen. We have even seen a few specifically of an equine nature (looking at you, Seabiscuit). Bleecker Street delivers their latest attempt at an underdog story featuring a surprisingly successful horse called Dream Alliance. Its title… Dream Horse.
What makes the story of Dream Horse so meaningful for audiences?
The story is centered on the lives of the people of a small Welsh town who combine forces to breed a horse to compete at the highest level. What doesn’t sound inspiring about that? Jan Vokes (Toni Collette) tries her best to keep her family afloat with her husband, Brian (Owen Teale). Jan connects with Howard Davies (Damian Lewis), a man with experience in the world of horse racing, and they bring to life a plan to train and run a prize horse. But can Jan, Brian, and Howard afford this venture? Unfortunately, no, but what they do have is a ragtag group of Welsh locals who want in on the game. The film delivers a wonderfully endearing crew of strange village folk from the dressed-up old woman, to the town drunk, to the quirky intellectual with a penchant for horse-related socks. Throw in a roller coaster ride of ups and downs and you’ve got yourself a charming little film. But a charming film is no stranger to Bleecker Street. Neil McKay, the screenwriter, will not surprise you with his story but certainly will pack it full of charming characters and heart. Not every plot thread feels necessary or delivers how it should (the whole storyline with Howard Davies’ personal life feels superfluous except for a surprisingly poignant payoff).
If we are to experience such a predictable story, how does this film deliver so much charm?
The characters and performances are one of the most significant aspects. Toni Collette is one of the most talented actors out there today (who should be riding high off of an Oscar win for Hereditary) and she is endearing and encouraging as this small town Welsh woman. We empathize so well with her as Collette delivers with moving and affecting physical acting that cannot be ignored. We feel just as engrossed and fearful watching Dream Alliance’s races because Collette (and the direction form Euros Lyn) draws us in. We feel her plight in her attempts for success and for her seeking of purpose in her small town life. I have certainly come from a small town and dream of a larger purpose. Collette is joined by her partner in this venture, Owen Teale, who delivers an endearing and affectionate performance as Brian. Teale sports an immaculate beard which is a wonderful mix of red and white. And who needs a full set of teeth when you can be as lovable as Brian? They have their tension and longstanding conflicts that rear their heads to deliver some extra drama, but their continued support of each other is something special. Damian Lewis stars as Davies who is given more in this role than is probably necessary narratively, but you have to deliver for someone of Lewis’ stature.
But can Lyn pull this all together to deliver a meaningful cinematic experience?
Of course, because this film has charm to spare. But not only that, there is fantastic tension that pops during the race sequences. The way the race scenes are edited create top notch suspense and tension. The camera will frequently cut to particular shots of Dream Alliance’s leg and back to Jan’s face. But why the horse’s leg? Is something going to happen? Will Dream Alliance be okay? Lyn grabs your attention and begins to make you question this potentially exciting and happy moment. That is some great filmmaking. I was transfixed on my screen every race because I knew I was getting impressive action in an otherwise low-key drama.
Will you be checking out Bleecker Street’s latest film when it hits theaters?
Does it deliver enough quality drama to keep you engaged? Does that added action grab you even more? Does the performance deliver a moving experience? If you want to have a wonderful feel-good time during the characters’ trying times, then go show Dream Horse some love.
Grade: B+