The Royal Art Of Riding

Riding - an art, a sport, or just a convenient way of getting from one place to another? Since ancient times, the techniques of horsemanship have been honed into an art form. But until fairly recently, riding as an elegant and artisitic pastime was mainly a privilege of the nobility - of kings and princes. This film - shot at original historic locations throughout Europe with romantic castles and beautiful landscapes, - recreates the atmosphere of the great epoch of courtly equitation. Representatives of such ancient horse breeds as the Arabian and Andalusian demonstrate their talents as virtuoso four-legged ballet dancers. Accompany us on a journey to historic locations, where long-forgotten images are brought alive again. Follow us back to an age in which riding wasn´t regarded as a sport, but primarily as an art form, - "The Royal Art Of Riding". Filmed in Spain, Germany and Denmark in the stables of the Danish Royal Family. The music is performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra of Denmark. The movie got international awards as one of the best films about equitation. Product Description

Amusing, Goofy Bent-fest

This film seriously reminded me of a cross between a Hokey 4th grade social studies film, and an autobiography of the film's producer, Bent Branderup. Of course the frustrating thing is that I didn't buy the film as an autobiography of Mr. Branderup, I bought it as a history of riding for riding's sake. Mr. Branderup is not only a slightly off sort of character, he has cast himself as the top-guy (showoff) in each of the scenarios, from winning jousts to beating opponents in fencing, to being waited on by servants. In addition to this, halfway through the film, there is an introduction to his horse, which I am not opposed to, but the way it is done is all in the glorification of Mr. Branderup. It becomes a history of his training and his riding experience, which I'll admit is with some of the best dressage trainers of our time, and is even technically a little glimpse into the history of horses. It is, however, still irrelevant to the supposed topic of the film, and I found it irritating and braggy.
If you're looking for a film full of pretty movements in somewhat realistic historical garb, this film is fun and funny at the same time. If you're looking for a serious exploration of the history of the horse, you might want to hold out and wait a while longer to see if anyone's willing to come forward to take on such an arduous task.
My final irritation was the use of only two breeds in this film, the spotted horse that Mr. Branderup adores so thoroughly, and (naturally) the Andalusian. There is no exploration of historical breeds, nor is there exploration of historical accuracy and documentation.
This film was a frustratingly hilarious and goofy depiction of a man who comes off as being really into himself, but can still ride well on his beautiful horse. It was NOT a depiction of the history of the pleasure horse and riding for riding's sake, and it certainly wasn't historically accurate. May 14, 2008

A must for the Baroque enthusiast

A wonderful return to the past glory of Baroque riding. An exploration of the true nature of the origins of dressage. A testament to the Classical principles of horsemanship. For those wishing to see a moment from the past brought into the 21st century this is a must. February 10, 2008

Majestic and moving

As a rider and trainer in the art of Classical Riding and the editor of The Cavalier (www.thecavalieronline.com) I view and write about riders and trainers all over the world. Never have I seen a more beautiful portrayal of TRUE Classical Riding in its proper location. This film is about moving sculpture at its highest level. A beautiful pose is taken by the horse and rider, the sculpture is created, and then it disappears into the air as the horse moves to the next movement. To achieve this level of horsemanship requires the same level of dedication and training as does a ballerina dancing for the Bolshoi. For those who have a passion for classical music, art, ballet, etc., this is one more form of equally divine expression. You will certainly appreciate this film. If you are an equestrian and want to know what true Dressage looks like, look no further. You will never find this kind of beauty in a dressage ring. To say this is boring is to say that viewing the Pieta by Michealangelo is boring as well. No, it is not Black Beauty. It is something much more. January 21, 2008

A visually artistic treat

This is by far the best photography of classic dressage on the market. The movie was made for everyone who appreciates the highest level of riding and training philosophies on earth today. It is a special treat for the heart of the artist. Anyone who is touched by the visual arts, love for classical dressage, and an equine miracle, will need to own this movie! I gave it out 4 times for Christmas. January 19, 2008

Royal Art of Riding

Not what I expected. Informative, but a little boring.The Royal Art Of Riding January 14, 2008

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