Dream Horse

         

       Based on a true story, Toni Collette and Damian Lewis star in this uplifting story of a remarkable thoroughbred race horse and the people that own him.

       Ms. Collette stars as Jan Vokes, a grocery clerk by day and a bartender by night in a small town in Wales.  After overhearing a story about a racehorse told by bar patron, Howard Davies (played by Mr. Lewis), Jan gets an idea how to change her "treadmill" life. She convinces her husband, Brian, played by Owen Teale, to buy a mare and breed her to raise a potential thoroughbred. Not having all the money needed, she creates a syndicate of owners formed by a group of other townsfolk.

        The syndicate is made up of a group of colorful characters in their own right and with Howard's knowledge of horses and his job as a tax adviser along with Jan's determination, we watch as "Dream Syndicate" begins his life on the racing circuit.

       Ms. Collette is wonderful as an ordinary woman with an extraordinary dream. Mr. Lewis blends into his role of an average man in a dull job whose life takes on new meaning as the horse begins to improve with each race. The other members of the syndicate are an odd mix each played by actors that bring them all to life. The entire ensemble will make you forget you are watching actors. And the various horses that play the part of "Dream Syndicate" are remarkable animals that you will most certainly fall in love with.

       The racing sequences are exhilarating and will have you on the edge of your seat. There have been plenty of films like this before but "Dream Horse" will still win your heart. So far, it's the one to beat for "feel good movie" of the year.