A Horse For Danny

A Horse for Danny is an emotionally gripping, heartwarming family drama about a young girl's determination, hope, and unwavering love for horse racing. With central performances from Leelee Sobieski, Robert Urich, and Ron Brice, the 1995 film goes the extra mile in portraying how far people can go for what they truly love and believe in.

The story centers on 11-year-old Danny Bara (Leelee Sobieski) who lives with her Uncle Eddie (Robert Urich) and elder brother, Gerry (Ron Brice), in a small town in Indiana. They are a warm trio with a shared passion for horse racing, a connection that is greatly influenced by their lineage. Danny's deceased parents were deeply invested in horse racing, with her father having been an acclaimed jockey.

Danny is no ordinary pre-teen; she is spunky, full of resolve, and highly observant. This astute quality lends her an uncanny knack for analyzing horse races, allowing her to predict with striking accuracy which horse would take the winning title. Her talent, although dismissed initially by many, is a keen aspect of her character that gradually gains recognition and plays a pivotal role in their lives.

Rob Urich's character, Eddie Fortuno, is a stubborn but loving paternal figure for Danny and Gerry. An honest man, Eddie solemnly strives to look after Danny and continue to make ends meet with his job as a horse trainer. Through the ups and downs of everyday struggles and the rather ruthless horse racing world, he provides a solid backbone for Danny to rely upon.

Ron Brice emerges as a sensible, grounded character as Danny's elder brother, Gerry. His quiet affections towards his family and dedication towards their shared passion for horses paints a beautiful sibling relationship that significantly contributes to the storyline.

One of the central elements of the film is the meaningful bond between Danny and a thoroughbred horse that graces their lives. Named ‘Tom Thumb’ by Danny, this horse becomes a symbol of hope, dreams, and ambition for the family.

The movie delicately blends the themes of horse racing with a subtle depiction of the complexities of a close-knit small-town community life, their struggles, and aspirations. The film doesn't shy away from showcasing the stark realities of the sport, yet maintains an inherent positivity that resonates throughout the storyline.

Amidst the excitement of horse racing and the roller coaster of emotions, A Horse for Danny also weaves in elements of intrigue, resilience, and gentle humor. The narrative focuses heavily on the bonds of familial love, singleton parenting, dealing with the loss of loved ones, and the resilient spirit of a young girl navigating through it all.

Leelee Sobieski, in her early role, delivers a compelling performance demonstrating powerful emotions. Her portrayal of Danny is evocative and inspiring. Robert Urich lends a commendable performance as Uncle Eddie, depicting a man of strong principles with a heart full of warmth. Ron Brice also manages to leave an impressive mark with his subtle and solid acting skills.

Directed by Dick Lowry, A Horse for Danny is a well-crafted film that beautifully balances charm and a profound depth of emotions. The scenes are well-shot, capturing the breathtaking beauty of race tracks and the exhilarating thrill of the races. The strategic camera work only enhances the suspenseful moments, catapulting the viewer right into the heart of the action.

Though set in the world of horse racing, the film is far more than merely a 'racing movie’. It's an exploration of familial ties, loyalty, and the audacious spirit of a young dreamer. Simplistic yet effective storytelling coupled with honest portrayals by the cast makes A Horse for Danny a moving cinematic piece that effortlessly draws the audience in.

Overall, A Horse for Danny is an inspiring tale packed with emotional punches and uplifting themes. It is a must-watch for horse racing enthusiasts, and equally so, for all who appreciate a well-told story about family, dreams, and determination.