The Greatest Movies About Horses, Ranked
Vote up the best films about horses, including those about wild stallions and racehorses.
Horses are majestic creatures that have been inspiring humans for centuries. From classic westerns to documentaries and animated films, there is something for everyone when it comes to horse-centric movies. Many are about racehorses, but others tell the tales of working horses and even colts born in the wild. Many of these best horse movies are based on real-life horses like Seabiscuit and Secretariat.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly movie night or just want to be inspired by these incredible animals, here are some of the best movies about horses that make for unforgettable viewing experiences. From National Velvet to War Horse, these iconic stories will take you on thrilling adventures with four-legged friends who become part of their human companions' lives in powerful ways. You'll laugh at heartwarming moments between horses and their owners or riders, and you'll marvel over daring scenes in which equine athletes race with all their might. With so many amazing stories focused on the power of friendship between man and horse, there's no shortage of entertainment when it comes to this genre.
- 1Matt Damon, James Cromwell, Daniel Studi
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Kelly Asbury, Lorna Cook
Set in the 19th century American West, Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron follows Spirit, an intelligent and courageous wild horse who must make his way back to his home after being captured by humans. The animation is gorgeous, with stunning backgrounds and beautiful music throughout. It's a tale full of emotion that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired by the courage of this special stallion.
- 2Sean Bean, David Thewlis, Jim Carter
- Released: 1994
- Directed by: Caroline Thompson
Black Beauty is a classic movie about the powerful bond between horses and humans, based on an 1877 novel by Anna Sewell. It follows an Arabian horse throughout colt-good, then as he is passed from owner to owner, facing different challenges along the way. Black Beauty's strength and courage are tested by each new experience until he is finally reunited with his first love: his original master. This heart-warming story shows how a loyal horse can captivate our hearts.
- 3Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges, Chris Cooper
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Gary Ross
Seabiscuit is a 2003 American sports film based on the true story of an undersized and overlooked thoroughbred racehorse against the backdrop of the Great Depression. This heartwarming movie follows his journey from obscurity to become one of the most beloved sporting figures in history with the help of a businessman (Jeff Bridges), a jockey (Tobey Maguire), and a trainer (Chris Cooper). Nominated for seven Academy Awards, Seabiscuit is considered one of the greatest films ever made about horses.
- 4Kelly Reno, Mickey Rooney, Teri Garr
- Released: 1979
- Directed by: Carroll Ballard
The Black Stallion tells the story of Alec Ramsey, a young boy who forms an unbreakable bond with Black, a wild horse he found on an island. Together they embark on an incredible journey across oceans and continents. The movie is praised for its stunning cinematography and powerful performance from both lead human actor Kelly Reno and his equine co-star Cass Ole.
- 5Diane Lane, John Malkovich, Dylan Walsh
- Released: 2010
- Directed by: Randall Wallace
Secretariat tells the true story of an incredible racehorse who overcame adversity and obstacles to become one of the greatest racers in history. Not only does it tell us an inspiring tale of courage and determination, but also gives us insight into how horses bond with their trainers (John Malkovich) and owners (Diane Lane). It's an emotional story that appeals to everyone, regardless if you're a fan of racing or not.
- 6Emily Watson, David Thewlis, Jeremy Irvine
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
War Horse follows the epic journey of Joey, a thoroughbred racehorse who is separated from his owner during World War I and sold to the British Army. The film follows the horse's odyssey through different communities and battlefields, exposing the harsh realities of war for humans and animals alike. War Horse received multiple awards and was nominated for the Oscar for Best Picture.
