Dreamer (2005) User Reviews

A Nutshell Review: Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story

[DICK STEEL · 7/10 · 11 January 2006]

The premise of this movie is so similar to 2003's Seabiscuit, you'd think you're watching yet another biography of a real horse in some extraordinary, inspiring film that might just make you want to head down to the nearest race course and observe a real race.

But Dreamer (or Sonador as the horse is named) takes a slightly different angle in this tale about second chances and comebacks. If compared to Seabiscuit, yes, we have a horse with great potential faced with the troubles of breaking a leg during a competitive race. As with all race horses, this means instant death, as they have no future value, and are bred for the sole purpose of racing.

We also have a superb trainer, Ben Crane, played by Kurt Russell, and the doctor (Holmes Osborne), the written-off jockey (Freddy Rodriguez), the stable-hand (Luis Guzman), etc. But here's where the similarities end. Dreamer is a more personal film, with family friendly characters, like the daughter (Dakota Fanning), the wife (Elizabeth Shue), and the grandfather (Kris Kristofferson). Nursing the horse back to health had actually brought the family closer together, and that in itself makes this film quite cliché in its many "been-there-done-that" before moments to touch.

Dakota Fanning has held her own against "father-figure" heavyweights like Robert De Niro, Denzel Washington, and Tom Cruise, though many would have pointed out that she had rivaled Naomi Watts for the 2005 Scream Queen honors with her performance in War of the Worlds. Here, Fanning has returned to more credible acting, albeit in a safer role.

Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story, is a heartwarming tale about believing in oneself, having dreams, believing that you can achieve, and take action to achieve those dreams. While watching the movie, I can't help but chuckle at the parallels in seeing how my team and I are sticking together, just like those characters, in wanting to see our dream of making a short film, and entering it into competitions (in this case, the Breeder's Cup) come to a reality.

It's that kind of film, an inspiring one. It might be clichéd, the premise might be too good to be true, but hey, success might come to those who dare to dream, believe, and more importantly, do.

Superb Story-telling

[maknight71 · 8/10 · 6 October 2005]

I was lucky enough to be able to preview this film on October 6, in Greenville, SC with my wife. While I had seen the previews several months ago for this film and thought it looked pretty good, I went in thinking it would be just another "chick flick". I was wrong. The story-telling was superb and very rarely dragged along, holding the attention well (I never looked at my watch). The acting was very good from all involved and Dakota is cute as ever. The drama was riveting without being over done or heavy-handed. All in all this film is a winner (no puns intended) and great for people of all ages (and genders).

Follow Your Dream and Magic May Happen

[claudio_carvalho · 7/10 · 17 January 2007]

In Lexington, Kentucky, the horse barn of the family Crane has been empty for years, without any horses, due to the financial difficulties of the family. When the female horse Sonya, a.k.a. Sonador (Dreamer, in Spanish) breaks one foreleg in a race, the owner Palmer (David Morse) decides to sacrifice the animal, but the trainer Ben Crane (Kurt Russell) accepts the injured horse as part of three months salaries owed by Palmer. His daughter Cale (Dakota Fanning) becomes very connected with Sonya, and while the horse is rehabilitated, the wounds in the ties of the Crane family are also healed.

"Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story" is one of those beautiful, positive, optimistic movies, with a magnificent message for families. First, you must never give up your dream; following your dream, no matter how impossible it seems to be, magic may happen. The other one is that families shall always stay united, no matter how difficult the situation seems to be: the union makes the strength. My vote is seven.

Title (Brazil): "Sonhadora" ("Dreamer")

"Inspired by" and Inspiring

[tmbeah · 23 October 2005]

As a long time horse racing fan and a former horse loving little girl, this movie had to go on my must see list. I would definitely recommend it for all families - and the adults may be surprised how much they enjoy it also. There is one scary scene for some young kids when the filly breaks down early in the movie - but this scene is part of the commercials that already have been on TV, so it should not be too much of a shock. As a racing fan, I found a few points that stretched credibility, but this is a "dream" after all, and they do point out that putting a filly or mare in the Breeder's Cup Classic has hardly ever been done, much less expecting she can win enough of the purse to justify the high entry fee needed. Even Azeri, who was a horse of the year, ran 5th when she took on male horses in the Classic. Sonador could have run in the Breeder's Cup Distaff instead, paid less for the entry fees, and still have astounded everyone with a win (when Mariah's Storm, the "inspired by" horse ran in the Breeder's Cup Distaff after her injury she did not win). Over all the movie does a pretty good job of representing the factual background (children can't generally be licensed as race horse owners, but the plot certainly works much better this way!).

I do think that if they are going to make "Inspired by a true story" part of the title, they should have provided information about this some where - perhaps as a post script at the end - but they do not. You have to find interviews with the screen writer to learn that it was inspired by Mariah's Storm who broke her leg as a 2 year old when she was expected to be a favorite in the 1993 Breeder's Cup Juvenile Fillies, but later returned to racing and won several graded stakes races. She has gone on to be the dam of several stakes winners, including Giants Causeway, who is one of the studs they admire at Ashmore Stud when looking for a horse to breed Sonadore to. Mariah's Storm is 14 years old now and is still having babies. I suspect that on their trip to the breeding farm we may be seeing the actual retired race horses, as the studs shown (Fusaichi Pegasus, Giant's Causeway, Johannesburg, Grand Slam) are all actually owned by Coolmore Lexington (formerly Ashmore Stud) in Kentucky. While inspired by Mariah's Storm, the movie is not really based on her. In fact, at one point, the characters talk about Mariah's Storm, when saying it may be possible for Sonador to race again after her broken leg, just like Mariah's Storm had. Grand Slam (the horse they considered breeding Sonador to) also made a comeback from an injury he suffered running in the 1997 Breeder's Cup Juvenile.

cliché sentimental movie and that's fine by me

[SnoopyStyle · 7/10 · 12 October 2014]

Cale Crane (Dakota Fanning) lives on a horse farm with no horses. Their farm is holding on with her mother Lily (Elisabeth Shue) working as a diner waitress. Her father Ben (Kurt Russell) doesn't get along with his father Pop (Kris Kristofferson). Ben trains horses for the rich owner Palmer (David Morse) who races his horse despite Ben's advise. The horse is injured and Palmer wants to put her down. Palmer fires Ben. Ben takes the horse for compensation. Partly through obsession, partly through skills, partly with love, and the hard work of everybody including Manolin (Freddy Rodriguez) and Balon (Luis Guzman), they bring her back to health. It's a roller-coaster ride when they find out that she is infertile.

This is an unabashed sentimental movie. Russell is great as the strong solid father under pressure. It's a good move that his character is healing the horse for the money rather than any moral stance. Fanning is adorable enough and spunky enough. It's a terrific underdog story. The movie is full of familiar clichés. It's probably too overloaded with them but Russell and Fanning make them work most of the time.

The Sky Opened

[ferguson-6 · 7/10 · 26 October 2005]

Greetings again from the darkness. Dreamworks brings us a family picture in the spirit of the old Disney movies ... only this one has a bit more substance. The comparisons to "Seabiscuit" are inevitable, but this is not a BIG film like that. It is much more a story of a man and his family.

Kurt Russell shines as a gifted/cursed horse trainer who has withdrawn from his family over the years. A stunning piece of bad luck puts him out of work and taking care of a broken down race horse. The horse turns into the proverbial rallying point that brings Russell close to his family - especially his daughter (Dakota Fanning) and his estranged father (Kris Kristofferson).

Fanning ("War of the Worlds") continues to exhibit amazing screen presence for such a youngster, but there are a few times when her lines seem a bit too scripted making her wise beyond her years. For the most part, she plays the role well as a daughter in love with a horse that is bringing her closer to her dad. Kristofferson is fine as the crusty old horseman who taught his son (Russell) and granddaughter (Fanning) all he knows about horses. He overdoes it a bit at the Breeder's Cup, but mostly plays the role well. David Morse ("St. Elsewhere") is very good as the villain/competitor ... again in the spirit of Disney villains. Elisabeth Shue ("Leaving Las Vegas") is Russell's wife and she is desperately under-utilized. Why doesn't this fine actress get more roles? Just for fun, check out former major leaguer-turned horse owner, Dick (Richie) Allen at the betting window with Russell.

Without a doubt, Russell is the star of the film. I have said for years this man should be a HUGE movie star, but so often makes poor choices in roles. He is perfect in this role. Strong, well-meaning and emotional when necessary. The guy is a great actor but will apparently never reach the superstar status he should. Would love to see him commit to acting in independent films for a few years and really work his craft. He and Goldie have to be set financially, so why not push his art?

Writer and first time Director John Gatins serves up a well made, high-quality family picture that should be seen by many. Certainly it will be big on DVD sales and rentals. Is it a bit heavy on melodrama? Absolutely. But it is very enjoyable, nonetheless.

Formulaic movie is still worth seeing

[bob-1926 · 6/10 · 13 November 2005]

If you have a daughter or a young girl to take to this movie it is worth seeing.

While there is a lot of hype around about Dakota Fanning, I thought she was given a persona that was too wordly-wise and adult for her supposed age. She acted like a wizened urban teen - not a farm girl. I do not particularly like her actually. I will admit she has a strong stage presence.

Similarly, the mother was mis-cast. I thought the mother was far too pretty and smooth to be a credible "farm wife." I think the scenery was beautiful and well filmed. I felt that the evil guy was very well cast.

There should have been a dog in the film.

Kurt Russell did a superb job of acting. It was not that difficult of a role but he nailed it. And Kris K. did his normal effortless job of just being himself - and it worked to a tee.

Thanks for reading this.

Not Exactly True, But A Wonderful Inspired Story

[ccthemovieman-1 · 10/10 · 21 March 2006]

Well, I just got through watching this much-anticipated film (by me) and it didn't disappoint except for one thing: I thought it was a true story. I didn't play close enough attention to the word "inspired" in the title because, unlike the story of Seabiscuit, this isn't what really happened.

It's based on a nice comeback story a real racehorse, Mariah's Storm, which did make a great comeback from a serious injury but not to the extent of what happens here in this movie. This was exaggerated to the hilt for dramatic purposes, but that's okay once you know that because the story is, indeed, "inspirational."

Most important, this is about as nice a modern-day film as you will ever find. There's nary a swear word, hardly even a raised voice. There are nice characters and a sweet, family-friendly tone to it with a tear-in-your-eyes Seabiscuit-type tale and ending.

Dakota Fanning once again demonstrates why she is the greatest child actor of her generation. Kurt Russell is excellent, too. Ole Kurt must be mellowing these days playing subdued nice guys like this. It's good to see. The same goes for Elisabeth Shue. This is a far cry from her role in Leaving Las Vegas. Even Kris Kristofferson holds his tongue in this film! Amazing.

Like Seabiscuit, this also is beautifully filmed. I wonder if any sport is filmed and is just surrounded by all this beauty in real-life, too, like horse racing? It IS "the sport of kings." There is some spectacular scenery in here, much of it in Kentucky and where better to be when filming a horse racing story?

So, if you and your kids - or just you - want to settle in for nice film, and you're looking for a pleasing, nice-looking, feel-good story you absolutely cannot miss with this film. Very highly recommended.

Dreamer: Soñador or Predictable?

[mandykittycat · 6/10 · 1 December 2005]

Set on "the only horse farm in Lexington, Kentucky without any horses," "Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story" is the story of a little girl and a horse. While that may seem like a familiar plot, "Dreamer" is something more—for one thing, the little girl is Dakota Fanning. The acting in "Dreamer," from Fanning to Kurt Russell to Kris Kristofferson, is of a somewhat higher quality than your typical girl-and-a-horse movie, and almost carries the film. The story of an injured filly who miraculously recovers and goes on to achieve greatness, "Dreamer" is also about the importance of family love. In the end, however, unless you are under 12, it is still a semi-predictable, inspirational, rent-the-video-when-it-comes-out- and-save-eight-bucks movie about a girl and a horse.

Cale Crane (Fanning) is a ten-year-old horse lover, who is allowed one day to go to work with her father, racehorse trainer Ben Crane (Russell). One of the horses he trains, Soñador, breaks a leg in a race, and, reluctant to have her put down in front of his daughter, Crane defies his boss and ends up losing his job, accepting the broken down horse as part of back salary. Crane nurses the horse back to health in the hopes of turning a profit by breeding her. Cale, on the other hand, dreams of racing Soñador. And the horse, whose name is Spanish for "dreamy," will do anything for the little girl—for the small fee of a Popsicle.

Full of family values, "Dreamer" shows how a horse brings father and daughter together. We also see Crane reconcile with his estranged father (Kristofferson). Parental sacrifice takes on a whole new meaning as Lily Crane (Elisabeth Shue) chooses to work 7-day weeks as a waitress so that her daughter and out-of-work husband can race a horse that in all probability will not amount to much. She tells Ben to do everything possible, including $120,000 in race entrance fees, so that Cale can take her dream as far as possible, as maternal dedication begins to border on improbable.

The acting in "Dreamer" is very good, especially by Fanning, who, as always, is excellent. The young actress, who has taken the film industry by storm since her debut in 2001's "I Am Sam," has the ability to portray a range of characters and has great emotional power and maturity for someone of her age. Interestingly, the part of Cale Crane was originally meant for a boy, but it was changed so Dakota Fanning's name could be added to the bill.

The filming, while nothing extraordinary, shows the beautiful scenery of Kentucky horse farms and the handsome horses that occupy them. The score, by John Debney, is melodious and moving. Inspired by the true story of Mariah's Storm, a filly who broke her leg in 1993 and went on to win the 1995 Breeder's Cup, "Dreamer" was written by John Gatins, who made his directorial debut with the film. After seeing the fast-paced animated comedy "The Incredibles" with his children, Gatins wanted to make a classic, live action, family drama movie that appealed to younger audiences but had a solid story adults could enjoy. I think he was successful.

For young audiences, "Dreamer" truly is a soñador, or dreamy, movie. For the rest of us, though, its predictability, while certainly its only notable flaw, may be its undoing. But in a time when the predictable happy movie ending is becoming increasingly less common, and thus, less predictable, perhaps we should sit back and enjoy a nice inspirational family story with traditional values, that shows us why happy endings became common and predictable in the first place—we like them!

Dreamer - A Delightful Story - Delightful Film

[mls-11 · 10/10 · 27 October 2005]

My wife and I saw this movie today, and were very happy to have spent the time and the emotion.

This is a heartwarming experience for virtually any viewer with a soul. Far beyond a simple story about a horse, this film delves in to multi-generational relationships and human frailty. In its relatively short time duration, the film depicted a great deal of real life.

Dakota Fanning is a remarkable actor. It is almost frightening to see someone of her tender years with such screen presence and ability to deliver a range of emotion so convincingly. If only the film industry will refrain from corrupting her - and her support group helps to keep her "real" - she will undoubtedly evolve into an excellent adult performer.

Kurt Russell is a perennial favorite of ours. We both commented on the joy of watching the growth of his career and ability from his child roles of Disney films through his present "mature" stage of career. Whether a husband and father in "Dreamer" or a dysfunctional husband and brother in "Backdraft, he is enjoyable to watch.

Kris Kristofferson as a crusty old horse person with a huge, warm heart, was a nice addition to the film. We have long acknowledge that his acting talent far exceeds his musical prowess.

Last, but not least, there is Elisabeth Shue. Since "Adventures in Babysitting," we have enjoyed her performances. She is beautiful, charming, adept, versatile and willing to take professional risks. It is unfortunate that the film industry does not provide her more good roles for someone of her abilities.

It is pleasing that "Dreamer" - and films of its style - are made. Such entertainment vehicles support a means to keep families bonded. "Dreamer" is a great way for families to spend a couple of hours together.

Don't hesitate to see this film. Open your heart, connect your soul to your brain, and enjoy yourself!

Good kids' movie, though a bit uneven for adults

[joeltzeroth-1 · 7/10 · 27 February 2006]

ANY movie with horses in gets at least a 5 ... this one is not bad at the technical elements regarding the horses, though there are some real boners.

Dakota Fanning is terrific to watch, as always. Fantastic young actress, very appealing, and spookily adult at times. Kurt Russell is OK; he struggles with the angst-ridden and just comes across as wooden. David Morse is a great bad guy, but has got some god-awful, over-the-top lines.

"Inspired" by a true story is stretching it a bit.

On to the gripes ...

First, the actor playing the jockey was very good, but too big to be a jockey. Minor.

There is a scene where Dakota Fanning sets off to run away from home on the filly ... untutored girl manages to tack up the horse and get on, at which point the horse spooks and takes off with the girl. Goof one - in real life, the kid would fall off in the first 10 seconds. Really. Goof two - the kid doesn't fall off but manages to leap with the skill of a trick rider from the back of the galloping horse (who is conveniently galloping in a nice straight line) into the waiting arms of her father. Hugely dangerous move, not one that should be attempted by a novice rider.

The scene before the big race includes a totally spurious "fight" between the Sonador horse and her arch rival in the race. First off, fillies and colts don't fight. Two colts might, but racehorse handlers are well used to colts and wouldn't let one get started. And come on ... handlers of BOTH horses just LET GO of the horses so they can get on with the big fight? Give me a break.

As horse movies go, this one isn't bad. Still bears the marks of being spiced up by completely non-horsey writers, however. I never understand that, as horses are pretty dramatic without the flights of fancy.

Great Family Movie!!!

[rlnutt · 10/10 · 23 October 2005]

My wife dragged me to this movie and I kinda thought I might enjoy it, so, I didn't fight it too much. Once the movie started and I got into the plot, I was hooked. My wife started crying within the first 15 minutes and she didn't stop until we walked out of the theater!!! It was the good kind of crying... not bad!!! Take the WHOLE family to the classic Disney type story!!! If you have any ability to follow how these types of movies go, then you will know the outcome long before it happens... it doesn't matter because you'll be wanting that outcome and you'll embrace it when it happens!!! Good acting, as always, from Kurt Russell and even Kris Kristofferson showed some range. Young Dakota Fanning has to be one of the most talented actresses of our time!! I could never see her as a 'child actor'... she an actress that just happens to be a child!!! GO SEE THIS MOVIE!!! You won't be sorry!!

enjoyable enough for a family outing

[samseescinema · 7/10 · 22 October 2005]

Dreamer

Reviewed by Sam Osborn of www.samseescinema.com

Rating: 2.5 out of 4

I'm damn sick of horse movies. Between Seabiscuit and Racing Stripes, I've seen my fair share of feel-good superfluity over these last couple years. And Dreamer, at first glance, seems like more of the same. But the further we plunge into this heap of inspirational hodge-podge, the more we find ourselves invested in the characters. What at first seems like another retread of old material evolves into something enticing, if only slightly different. Yes, Dreamer is the same old, same old; but the film's written well enough to make it enjoyable enough for a family outing.

Dreamer's plot plays out pretty much as we'd expect it to; focusing on an unlikely horse making its way to racing stardom. The way the film arrives at the horse's fame, however, is a slight and very welcome variation on the old formula. Instead of launching straight into the cushy underdog story, Dreamer bothers itself with the commerce side of horse racing. Initially, after the horse Sonador breaks its leg in a race, Ben Crane (Kurt Russell) and his daughter Cale (Dakota Fanning) plan to heal the bone, breed Sonador with a prize-winning stud, and sell the offspring for as much as $300,000. I liked this approach. It explored a side to horse racing often kept out of Hollywood. The concept was new for me, being a city-born kid whose only horse experience has been as a wide-eyed tourist.

But, alas, Sonador is found infertile and the family has to resort to horse racing again, and Dreamer falls back to its genre expectations. That's fine; I walked into the theatre expecting this. Thankfully, however, Dreamer doesn't take the straightest of paths to get to its ending. The film does manage to rotate the tables some, even if it is only a slight adjustment. Instead of Ben taking full control of Sonador's racing, he hands the reigns over to Cale, whose knowledge of horses comes from the old stories of her estranged grandfather, Pops (Kris Kristofferson), who lives across the field in the guest house. So we're treated to some funny, wholesome moments of family growth and childhood emerging into adolescence. It's no coming-of-age story, but, again, it's interesting enough to keep us interested.

There have been enough words said already about the young, prodigious Dakota Fanning. We get it. She's amazing. Let's just sit back and look forward to all her upcoming work. Kurt Russell, on the other hand, hasn't had as consistent a track record as Fanning; but here, he's convincing enough as Cale's father Ben. The director reportedly had a boy in the place of Cale in the original screenplay; but after seeing Fanning in Man on Fire, decided the film was meant for her instead. The writers may have shifted the dialogue's focus to a more feminine motivation for Cale, but they seem to have left Ben's character intact. Surprisingly, this slacking effort works wonders for Dreamer. There's a stern gruffness to Ben that we've commonly seen in father-son stories. But put to a father-daughter story, the effect is somehow better. The contradiction of characters is sentimental, but without the teary-eyed pudge that bogs down this sort of film. The Cranes' three-generation family actually reminded me a little of the family from last month's An Unfinished Life; with the cold western flair of silence that seemed to permeate about the film's tone, ratcheting up the story's intensity just enough to keep us from yawning.

Admittedly, Dreamer is the kind of film that could never really be all that intense. It is a horse film after all. But it manages to avoid gimmicks and mute its contrivances enough to let us examine its characters for what their worth. And with Dakota Fanning at the helm, along with good supporting work from Russell and Kristofferson, Dreamer makes it out unscathed.

www.samseescinema.com

Austin Movie Show review...

[leilapostgrad · 4/10 · 23 October 2005]

This movie is exactly what you're expecting it to be. Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story is a nice family film about a father and daughter who nurse an injured horse back to health. Then, against all odds, the horse goes on to win a major horse race championship. I'm sorry if I don't sound too enthusiastic about it, but I'm not. It's a good, solid cast, and Dakota Fanning can do no wrong (because Fanning was involved, it turned out, was the only reason why a major Hollywood Studio agreed to make this movie). But the actual story didn't seem remarkable or original. Yes, I'm glad an injured horse was able to recover and go on to win a major race, but I know I've heard this story before. I honestly don't ever need to hear it again, even if it is Miss Fanning telling the story.

A very nice movie, but only for those who will let themselves dream.

[TxMike · 16 April 2006]

"Dreamer" was inspired by a true story, but this is almost completely fiction. But that doesn't matter, if you like to see movies with family values and a happy ending.

Kurt Russell is Ben Crane (not the golfer), a horse trainer who is just scraping by. The movie begins with a budding champion filly racehorse that seems to have a "hot" front leg. Ben doesn't want to run her, but is forced to by his boss (David Morse) who trains horses for a wealthy Prince who wants to beat his brother's horses. Predictably, with the horse leading coming down the homestretch, something goes terribly wrong.

This movie is about a family, and how this tragedy with the horse brought them together. Young Dakota Fanning who plays the daughter Cale Crane, shows again why she is one of the best working, of any age. Her delivery, her gestures, are always just right. Kris Kristofferson is good as her grandfather, Ben's dad "Pop" Crane, and always dependable Elisabeth Shue as her mother Lily.

SPOILERS FOLLOW. The horse fractures a leg bone, there is a terrible tumble on the dirt track, the vet at the track wants to "put her down" but since Cale was present, Ben asked to hold off until later. Ben, very angry that he was made to run her, is fired by his boss who offers him $6Grand in cash to settle his back wages of $9Grand, but Ben bargains to take the $6Grand plus the injured horse. He hoped to breed her to get back his investment. But she turns out non-fertile, another setback for Ben and Cale. But one day with Cale on her back, they get loose and the horse runs and runs. She has healed, they eventually train her to race again, barely get into the breeder's cup, getting the $120Grand entry fees from the other Prince, and win the race.

If you liked Seabiscuit

[mick987g · 6/10 · 6 November 2005]

I just got back from Dreamer and had to say it was a very good movie. If you liked Seabiscuit you will like this story as well. As said in other comments it is family movie

If you like Kurt Russell movies you will like this one as well.

It will make you tear up a little for sure.

I have never seen Dakota Fanning in any movie before , thought too much hype. But she did a fairly good job.

I always love to see Luis Guzmán in his roles I was glad to read that he called Dreamsworks and had a free screening in the area he lives in Vermont to show kids who would never get to see it.

Hat's off to Mr Guzman and Dreamworks for brigthening a child's day.

Cale?

[luerkwitz-38419 · 6/10 · 30 June 2022]

I'm only 3 minutes into Dreamer and having difficulty with the concept of anyone naming their daughter Cale. Why not Potato or Broccoli? It's just distracting me. Maybe it will get explained. Mom had kale cravings during pregnancy?

"When you ran, the ground shook, the sky opened and mere mortals parted..."

[juneebuggy · 6/10 · 19 June 2015]

This was definite feel-good movie. Cute, predictable, formulaic but also extremely well done. It's family fare and Disney-ish, was it Disney? Anyways, a great family film, well constructed, with a lot of heart including several well known actors who all do a great job with the material.It's just an all round nice movie.

The horse scenes are well done, the final race exciting and I loved the scene with "Sonya" carrying Dakota's backpack through the field. Family feuds are mended and there are some amusing scenes with jockey Freddy Rodriguez. David Morse is (as always) very good as the bad guy.

I much as I enjoyed this everything about it was familiar. The cast is great though, including a young Dakota Fanning as the precocious daughter of Kurt Russell, a horse trainer whose gifts were being wasted on making other men's fortunes. When "Soñador" a young horse with a promising future breaks her leg, the owner (the nasty David Morse) considers her as good as dead, Kurt however believes she deserves another chance and adopts her, losing his job in the process.

Along with Freddy Rodriguez, Luis Guzman and Kris Kristofferson they bring her back to peak performance, reconnecting lost family bonds along the way and then entering into a seemingly impossible goal; to win the Breeders' Cup Classic. 5/31/15

Go see this movie...and dream along.

[rlbpe · 10/10 · 25 October 2005]

An uplifting, heartwarming movie...inspires one to dream and dream big. It's a must see, especially for the lovers of horses. Rivals the Horse Whisperer as my favorite movie revolving around horses. Kurt Russell is great, as always. Dakota Fanning is a very special young actress, perhaps a greater talent at her age than Drew Barrymore. Kris Kristofferson play his usual gritty character. And last but not least, it's great to see Elisabeth Shue on the silver screen again. She is a natural beauty and a great actress. The movie is very timely in that it involves the Breeder's Cup, which, at the time of this writing, is coming up this weekend. It's a movie for all ages, and if it comes out on DVD before Christmas, it'll make a wonderful gift.

Good family fare

[PeachHamBeach · 7/10 · 14 May 2006]

Kurt Russell is the main reason why I liked this film. He can do no wrong and brought heart and depth to what might have been a boring or hokey family film. The supporting cast is of better actors like Elisabeth Shue, David Morse, Kris Kristofferson (sp?) Luis Guzman and Freddy Rodriguez, not to mention above average kid actor Dakota Fanning.

The story is similar to SEABISCUIT and HIDALGO, and horse lovers will enjoy it immensely. Sonador, or Sona (pronounced Sonia) is a mare whose leg is injured. She is spared from being shot, adopted by a Kentucky family, and nursed back to health. Even though nobody deems her fit to race, she rises above the odds and has her moment to shine.

It's an ideal and entertaining family film, way above the average in this genre.

a Truly Moving Picture

[tollini · 10/10 · 15 September 2005]

I saw this film on September 13th in Indianapolis. I am one of the judges for the Heartland Film Festival that screens films for their Truly Moving Picture Award. A Truly Moving Picture "…explores the human journey by artistically expressing hope and respect for the positive values of life." Heartland gave that award to this film.

The setting is the beautiful horse country around Lexington, KY. A dysfunctional horse family falls on hard times. The family includes a grandfather (Kris Kristofferson), a son (Kurt Russell), his wife (Elisabeth Shue), and their daughter (Dakota Fanning). The son is a horse trainer and loses his job abruptly and takes with him a badly injured horse to his shrunken, empty, rundown horse farm.

Just as the horse, Sonador, which is Spanish for Dreamer, struggles to become healthy, the family also struggles to become a caring, loving unit again. The indomitable spirit of the daughter as she cares for the horse forces the family to confront their problems. And ultimately they do face their problems with courage, spirit and even heroism.

The acting in this movie by the family members was superb. But Dakota Fanning deserves a special mention. It seems once a generation there is an outstanding child actor that is believable. She is this generation's child actor.

The cinematography and music score are outstanding. The horse country comes alive and you begin to understand why "…the sport of kings…" becomes many people's profession.

FYI – There is a Truly Moving Pictures web site where there is a listing of past winners going back 70 years.

The dream triumphs...

[jpschapira · 7/10 · 26 July 2006]

The cinema has seen so many films about horses that the audience could be easily tired of it. From "Black Beauty", through the marvelous "Seabiscuit" to "Dreamer: Inspired by a true story". The fact that the last lines are part of its original title, explains that it matters to the filmmakers and so it will to the audience. Actually these films continue to work and no one has complained about it.

Whether they are based or inspired by true stories or not, whether they contain the same story and the same stereotyped characters, whether they have the same cheesy and moving score and whatever the name of the horse is (which is usually the one in the title). "Soñador" is Cale Crane's (Dakota Fanning) horse name; it means "Dreamer" in Spanish. Cale is a little girl, but she loves that horse and she earns more than the half of it.

"My father says that this used to be a very big farm", says little Cale at the beginning of the movie. Now her father Ben (Kurt Russel) is a horseman working for Palmer (David Morse), the bad guy. Palmer's best horse, Soñador, has a race, but Ben tells Palmer that the horse doesn't seem well, that she shouldn't run. The race takes place, and the horse breaks a leg; Palmer wants to let her die, but Ben doesn't; so he takes her to his stable.

Soon, Ben and his helpers Balon (a charming Luis Guzmán) and Manny (a surprising Freddy Rodriguez) are fixing her, with the help of Pop (Kris Kristofferson); who had been angry at his son Ben but says "he is the best horseman". Now Ben's wife and Crane's mother Lily (a beautiful and solid Elisabeth Shue) is living a dream with the possibility of Soñador running again.

What follows you will already know it, but I assure you will want to see it anyway. Movies about horses always have an element that makes you stay put in front of the screen. I could say this is a trick, this is a safe way of making the film likable; but there is a hidden honesty somewhere, a sign of true feeling. "Seabiscuit" had something very touching and very moving, and I never knew what it was.

John Gatins, writer of sports films, some bad ("Summer Catch"), some regular ("Hard Ball") and some very good ("Coach Carter"), comes back with horses and family, and comes back in style. His long shots are beautiful, so is his story and his peaceful camera and direction. He is extensively aided by John Debney's familiar but perfect score that helps the environment with violins and strings.

My mother rented the film because, among other things, she saw Dakota Fanning in the cover…Have you got any idea the power this little girl transmits on screen? She's facing great actors in "Dreamer", and she's being better than them at times. "Look at the faces she makes, look at the expressions", my mother said.

Kurt Russel has being doing quiet roles over the last few years, and he is very likable in them. Here, he makes you believe that he loves horses and that they talk to him. Kris Kristofferson really seems Russel's father, and he plays his role calmly and subtly…He astounds. And the movie does what I've said a lot in different ways: it triumphs.

Such A Great Movie!

[horsecrazy6791 · 10/10 · 6 November 2005]

Wow, I saw this movie last night and it was amazing! I have always had a love for horses and have been around them for over seven years, but that's not the only reason why I loved "Dreamer" as much as I did.

All the actors and actresses did such a great job in this movie. I have been a fan of Dakota Fanning for a while now, and I think she does well in almost everything she does, but I don't think it would be possible for her to do any better than she did in this movie. She played her character Cale Crane, perfectly. It was obvious throughout the movie that she loved her horse, Sonador, with all of her heart. She would even sneak out at night to feed her Popsicles! In real life, Dakota has her own horse named Goldie, so she was already used to being around horses before she started filming this movie.

Kurt Russel also did an amazing job in this movie. Honestly, I don't think there is any other actor out there that deserved that part more than he did. I've seen Elisabeth Shue (Lily Crane) in another one of her most recent movies, "Hide and Seek," which is a completely different genre of movie, but I thought she did a great job in it, and "Dreamer" as well. Dakota Fanning was also in "Hide and Seek," and did a great job too, as usual.

I didn't even notice one single thing in this movie that I would have changed. It was just so good, and I think there should be more movies like this to be made in the future. Everyone in the theater clapped and cheered when Cale's horse Sonador, crossed the finish line in first place at the Breeder's Cup. "Dreamer" is a movie that anyone can enjoy, so if you are looking for a really, really good, inspirational movie, I highly suggest you go see this one. 10/10.

More than a racing movie and beautiful images, is a work that emphasizes the love, the forgiveness, the importance of dreaming and the reconstruction of a family

[fernandoschiavi · 7/10 · 5 March 2023]

Dreamer is the typical and necessary film that everyone loves but many criticize its lack of unpredictability. In fact, that kind of drama in general suffers from this problem, but are in the works so we value more than the path we stop to think about the final destination, where we are led. And this piece really deserves. As dramas involving horses, as in the case of the successful The Horse Whisperer (1998) led by Robert Redford, and more recently by the great Seabiscuit (2003) from director Gary Ross have here a drama that involves animals and how they interfere or influence in our own lives or relationships. The director of this drama is Gattins John, who makes his directorial debut, but nevertheless already had the experience roteirizar dramas that involve overcoming such Hardball (2001) by Brian Robbins, and especially Coach Carter (2005) by director Thomas Carter.

Even with that experience in the genre, Gattins had thought of a boy to star in the story, but he saw that would only get the studio to finance his project if he could convince the greatest child star of the moment carries it. It was then that Dakota Fanning joined the project. Dakota has already debuted on the rise since it debuted in cinema as a young child and remained so, having in its curriculum works like I Am Sam (2001) with Sean Penn, Man on Fire (2004) with Denzel Washington, and most recently having worked with master Robert De Niro in 2005 film Hide and Seek and the same year with War of the Worlds starring alongside Tom Cruise.

With the addition of the always exceptional Dakota, was up to the director to call another name of weight that would be the other protagonist of the plot, and it was Kurt Russell's turn to join the project. Unlike Dakota, starring Russell came several years before bad movies, the most recent of which, the film Poseidon (2006). To complete the cast, we Elisabeth Shue, Dakota who had worked in Hide and Seek, veteran Kris Kristofferson, Freddy Rodríguez, Luis Guzmán, Oded Fehr and David Morse as "villain" of the plot. Gattins had succeeded, finally, a cast of respect.

In the plot, Ben Crane (Kurt Russell) is a coach who takes care of horses for other owners. Before a race, Ben Palmer warns his boss that the mare is restless and would not be ready to run. Palmer ignores the warning and during a race, the mare Soñador, daughter of champions and an incredible potential as a racehorse, ends up falling and fracturing one paw. Palmer asks then to sacrifice it and dismisses Ben who is against the decision and he er been forced to put her to run. Ben accepts a portion of the money that the employer owed him and Soñador as part payment. Ben then goes on to look after the mare along with his friends, the jockey Manolin (Freddy Rodriguez) and caregiver Balon (Luis Guzman) and his daughter Cale (Dakota Fanning), who sees a chance to get closer to his father through his job. When the horse is ready to run short, Ben and Cale enter you decide to dispute the Breeder's Cup, a major horse race. It is said that the story is true and happened in 1995, and a horse named Mariah's Storm.

The film starts with an aerial shot flying over several farms, with its green pastures and clean, which culminates in the old family home and worn Crane. The pictures and the frames of John Gatins create the excitement necessary to the plot coupled with the emotional soundtrack, smooth and incredibly sentimental and appropriate John Debney (Sin City (2005)), and Cale's background narration about the past when this place was full of horses and now there were none. And there we see the sad look Cale and the plot started. This feature of narration in the background is a common technique, and that despite being very usual, works in most cases. Here there is no abuse, with the narration being placed at specific times, emphasizing phrases that will guide future relationships and moments of the plot (such as phrases champion, simulating the narrator of the race by the voice of Cale).

Again, the actress Dakota Fanning shows exquisite and versatile it is. Their friendliness, charisma, smile and beauty supplant the big names of the cast and is definitely the strength of the film. In a drama that strength, that child with the qualities and talents of the young girl to be better than her? She is a young above average in all aspects and truly excites. The scene where she gets emotional easily in a touching scene with Russell after Russell's character having read the letter with the story she wrote in high school about the king stupid is a touching moment. What about the scene where Cale takes off sprinting on the back of Soñador Ben and his father out with the car desperately trying to catch her? Or the face of lack of joy and soon after when the father agrees to let her go with him to work or to stud farm of a friend to get a stallion to Soñador. Dakota gives show when he discovers that the mare is barren and has a beautiful scene comforting the animal and shows extreme charisma and naturalness in the scenes in which the animal tries to enroll in the Breeder's Cup, during training and, of course, the final climax.

Kurt Russell also has great scenes alongside Dakota, Shue and Kristofferson and this is his best work in years. He has a chance to start as a villain, a man embittered that he had to go to the farms selling slowly, it did not have much intimacy with her daughter, a man who learned to believe again, to dream, to give attention to daughter , to reconcile with his father, turning over a journey of redemption.

Dreamy is indeed a film that we know how it will end after a half hour display, but excels in its various triumphs and virtues, as in moments of thrill. Director John Gattins uses all the clichés of this kind of movie and let them know nice and predictable plot turns scenes into something full of charisma that appeals to the public in full. One thing this film can do well, is thrilled with a instrumental soundtrack and impeccable make anyone break into tears as the end credits with the beautiful song "Dreamer" Brittany Dillon. These moments of excitement are propitiated by a competent cast and handpicked, where there is no slippage or discrepancies. Besides the exciting soundtrack, art direction and photography are sublime, despite the onslaught of scenes in close. Note that there was an immense care with all the sets, and the racecourse is where the final race is the highlight.

The film is an authentic family drama that captivates. It's no fun blockbuster, but a reflection on the uplifting of a family by the symbology of a mare who came to change everyone's life. As Cale says at one point when her father sells: "She was our horse." Soñador was why Cale moved closer to her father, who did not pay much attention to her despite her overwhelming desire to spend more with him. She always loved and love in spite of everything and just needed more attention and care. With the arrival of the animal, the two began to learn more and to live through something that is in the family blood: a passion for horse racing; Even disliking her grandfather taught about racing for the girl, her interest never died and always asked his grandfather to tell more stories about horses for her. Besides the relationship Cale and Ben, the mare just approaching other father and another son, Ben Crane and Pop, they faced problems long ago. Even if the relationship is not detailed in the film about the past of the two and the family, it is evident love of both and how they needed that rapprochement.

More than a racing movie and beautiful images, is a work that emphasizes the love, the forgiveness, the importance of dreaming and the reconstruction of a family base that had dissolved a long time. The typical work that makes us reflect, cherish those we love, to learn what matters in life, to give attention to detail and that excites us all the time and using wisely the mare Soñador as a symbol of all that. A film for invigorating the soul and the heart. More than recommended and should be seen as often as possible with the whole family.

Formula movie

[gmherp-1 · 3/10 · 29 October 2005]

This is like Racing Stripes with the the thoroughbred instead of the zebra. For those of us who have seen 500 of these formula movies (down on the luck people (who happen to be better looking, charming, and appealing) make an amazing comeback while evil, rich, established people (who happen to look like Arab terrorists to really make us hate them),try to thwart them. (Spoiler, if that is possible). Oh boy, the down on the luck people win. Cheer Cheer. The good horse is attacked by the evil people's horse (who is also evil, of course) just before the race. The good people want to withdraw, but the horse insists on running. (Right) Get real. Of course the horse starts the race "dead last" and at the last minute moves up to win the race. Yawn. Boring. Incidentally, the children in the theater obviously were bored also and tried to entertain themselves by kicking the seats and making multiple trips in and out of the theater. The sad part is that I left the also boring Legend of Zorro movie hoping Dreamer would be better and ended up watching two duds. Pretty horses in both movies, anyway.