Mary Allen
Introduction: The Horses of National Velvet
National Velvet is a beloved film that has captured the hearts of audiences for generations. The movie was released in 1944 and tells the story of a young girl named Velvet Brown who dreams of competing in the Grand National Steeplechase, one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. The horses in the film play a significant role, and their performances are integral to the story.
The Role of the Horses in the Film
The horses in National Velvet are more than just props or background scenery. They are essential characters that help drive the plot forward. From the acquisition of the piebald horse to the thrilling race at the end of the film, the horses are instrumental in conveying the story’s themes of perseverance, determination, and the unbreakable bond between human and animal. The horses represent freedom, strength, and the unbridled spirit of youth, which are all central themes in the film.
A Brief Overview of the Plot
National Velvet tells the story of a young girl named Velvet Brown, who lives in a small English village with her family. Velvet dreams of owning a horse and competing in the Grand National Steeplechase, but her family is poor, and they cannot afford to buy her a horse. One day, Velvet wins a piebald horse in a raffle, and with the help of her trainer, Mi Taylor, she begins to train for the race of a lifetime.
The Protagonist: Velvet Brown
Velvet Brown is the heart and soul of the film. She is a determined, independent young girl who refuses to let her gender or social status hold her back from achieving her dreams. Velvet is a horse lover through and through, and her passion for horses is what drives her to enter the Grand National Steeplechase. The character of Velvet Brown is played to perfection by Elizabeth Taylor, who was just 12 years old at the time of filming.
The Acquisition of the Piebald Horse
The acquisition of the piebald horse is a turning point in the film. Velvet wins the horse in a raffle, and it becomes the catalyst that sets her on the path to achieving her dream. The piebald horse, which Velvet names The Pie, is a symbol of hope and possibility. It represents the idea that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and work hard enough.
The Training of the Horses
The training of the horses is a critical aspect of the film. Mi Taylor, Velvet’s trainer, is instrumental in preparing The Pie and the other horses for the Grand National Steeplechase. The training scenes are some of the most memorable in the film, as they showcase the bond between the horses and their human counterparts. The training scenes also highlight the dedication and hard work required to achieve success.
The Race of the Century
The race at the end of the film is the climax of the story. It is the moment that Velvet and The Pie have been working towards, and it is a thrilling, emotional experience for both the characters and the audience. The race is filled with drama, suspense, and heart-pumping excitement, and it is a testament to the skill of the filmmakers that they were able to create such a thrilling sequence.
The Jockey: Mi Taylor
Mi Taylor is Velvet’s trainer and confidant. He is a former jockey who has retired from racing, but he sees something special in Velvet and The Pie. Mi is instrumental in helping Velvet prepare for the Grand National Steeplechase, and his guidance and support are a significant factor in her success.
The Actor Who Played Mi Taylor
Mi Taylor is played by the actor Mickey Rooney. Rooney was a popular actor in the 1940s and 1950s and was known for his energetic, charismatic performances. He brings a sense of warmth and humor to the role of Mi Taylor, and his chemistry with Elizabeth Taylor is one of the highlights of the film.
Who Rode the Piebald Horse?
The role of The Pie, Velvet’s beloved piebald horse, was played by a horse named King Charles. The horse was trained specifically for the film and was chosen for his distinctive, eye-catching markings. King Charles was ridden by several different jockeys over the course of the film, including Mickey Rooney, who rode the horse in some of the more challenging scenes.
Who Rode the Other Horses?
The other horses in the film were played by a variety of different horses, each with their own unique talents and abilities. The horses were trained specifically for the film and were chosen for their athleticism, beauty, and trainability. The jockeys who rode the other horses were all experienced riders who were skilled at working with animals.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the Horses of National Velvet
The horses of National Velvet have become iconic symbols of the film’s themes and messages. They represent the enduring bond between human and animal, the power of perseverance and determination, and the unbridled spirit of youth. The film has inspired generations of horse lovers, and the horses themselves have become beloved characters in their own right. National Velvet remains a timeless classic, and the horses will always be a vital part of its enduring legacy.