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FIRST SATURDAY IN MAY
The film tells the story of the dedicated men and women that make the, "Sport of Kings", tick by starting out showing some of the early season prep races for the six horses and their trainers. As the preps are run, the movie shows the planning and strategy involved by the horses' connections all with one goal - winning the holy grail of horse racing - the Kentucky Derby. By having access to the trainers and their barns, the viewer has an inside look at the decisions that go into planning each race. Along with a close-up perspective of the celebrations and victories, they also offer a closer look at the emotional toll the Derby pursuit takes on the connections of the contenders especially the disappointments and setbacks along the way.
This feature is more than a stereotypical horse racing documentary. It goes well beyond the horses and trainers, providing a look at the families and friends of the trainers. Some scenes offer poignancy and humor, adding a human touch to the production. Viewers get to see first-hand the relationships between the trainers and their children. In one scene, Jake Romans (son of trainer, Dale Romans) is shown accompanying his father to the track after skipping school. Michael Matz is shown as his younger son is acquainted with BARBARO for the first time.
Of course, we all know the outcome as BARBARO won the Derby then came the Preakness Stakes in which BARBARO sustained a life-threatening injury. The film follows BARBARO's progress and physical setbacks including one scene in which Gretchen Jackson, who raced the colt along with her husband visits the horse.
In the end, this documentary unfolds like a sweeping novel, a work of art that will raise Thoroughbred racing to another level and enable those both familiar and unfamiliar with the sport to witness it as they've never witnessed it before. From the laughter and the cheering to the emotional impact of the masterfully-handled death of BARBARO, there is little doubt that this film will leave a powerful impression on all those who see it.
(100 Minutes)
Listing Info: | |
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Listing ID: | 582 |
Format(s) Available: | DVD And VHS |
Category: | U.S. & Canadian Flat Racing |