Hidalgo (2004)

Good For All

This recount of the life and times of Frank Hopkins is fun to watch, thought provoking, and heartwarming. Even if one has not lived such an exciting life, it is easy to relate to some of the personal trials while wishing for such fun.
As the story evolves around a 3,000 mile race, Hopkins' Mustang is clearly the underdog. Hopkins and Hildago (the paint Mustang) must each face the harsh desert and its perills, the "bad guys", and personal conflicts.
Hopkins competed in races around the world well into his 60's, not only for the adventures, but to bring to light his personal goals regarding the Mustangs and protection of their lives and environment. He was an activist on behalf of the Mustangs all of his adult life.
An excellent movie, good for all. July 21, 2008

An entertaining and well acted film

Hidalgo is a pretty good film, entertaining and visually beautiful. Viggo Mortensen utterly owns this film. Him and that beautiful horse. Its unbelievable the rapport they have in this film. Its very sweet and completely believable. It's not just an actor on a horse. It feels like so much more. And that is what makes this film work. The script is pretty engaging and the acting from the rest of the cast is also very good. I do remember I think it was a tad on the long side, which isn't a big deal really but truthfully, I don't think it needed to be that long. However, since Viggo is in this, it really doesn't matter since his acting is so brilliant and you really can't take your eyes off him when he's on screen. There is a nice amount of action mixed with humour and some tense, almost depressing moments. It really has everything anyone could want in a film. June 19, 2008

Wonderful Acting

Authentic beautiful set with great costumes and acting. Awesome horses and desert scenery. A must see on my list. June 15, 2008

Highly Entertaining

A very fast-paced and entertaining film with Viggo Mortensen, Omar Sharif. One important fact: no such race ever existed. Hopkins made all of it up. Still if you are looking for a good family entertainment, then this is certainly one. June 11, 2008

A good horse an' Indian movie

The American Indian tamed the Spanish horses that got free and went wild.
The mustang became an all American breed of horse. The stamina and endurance
of the mustang against breeds more than 1000 years old was established
by this one horse and one man, refuting all prejudice about breeding lines.
The same has happened repeatedly in human history: out of no where comes
a fellow as stringy as beef jerky!
Killing people and horses because of their heritage is criminal
and unchristian.
May 31, 2008

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