Orphan Horse

Orphan Horse is a heartwarming family drama film directed by Sean McNamara. The film was released in 2018 and stars Jon Voight, an Academy Award-winning actor best known for his roles in films like Deliverance and Coming Home. Also in this film are talented young actress Alexa Nisenson and Vail Bloom. This movie is a moving tale full of compassion, bonding, and the power of overcoming one's past, told through a unique alliance between a young runaway and an aged rancher combating his own demons.

Set in the rural heartland of America, the plot revolves around the lives of an elderly farmer Ben Briggs, played by Jon Voight, and a runaway girl, Charlotte, or Charlie, wonderfully portrayed by Alexa Nisenson. Ben, a former professional horse trainer, owns a farm in a small town where he maintains a reclusive lifestyle, living with the memories of his past.

On a stormy night, Ben's solitary life gets disrupted when he discovers a frightened girl, Charlotte, seeking refuge in his hay barn. Charlotte is a fugitive from an abusive foster home who, desperate for a better life, daringly runs away by herself. Discovering this helpless girl alone on a stormy night, Ben decides to shelter her, setting in motion a unique relationship that will alter the courses of their lives forever.

With nowhere else to go, Charlotte ends up staying with Ben who, despite his initial reluctance, warms up to the young visitor. As he learns more about Charlotte's troubled past and predicament, he decides to help her. He teaches her the intricacies of rural life, including how to care for the injured horse that charlotte found and named Shy Boy.

The horse, like them, is also an outcast who bears the scars of a harsh past. Shy Boy is an abused, unruly horse that most people had given up on, notably sharing similarities to both of their past situations. Charlie and Shy Boy's bonding forms the heart of the story as they both learn to trust again, heal from their past, and find a sense of belonging together.

Renowned actor Jon Voight gives a powerful performance as Ben, adding depth to this stoic yet compassionate character. His chemistry with the young Alexa Nisenson is palpable, adding authenticity to their blossoming relationship. Nisenson also shines, delivering a compelling performance as the young and defiant Charlotte. Vail Bloom, playing main character Marta Davis, a compassionate and confident woman from the town, who enters into their lives and forms a close relationship with both Ben and Charlie.

The storytelling in Orphan Horse is thoughtful and warm, filled with emotional peaks and valleys that keep the viewers engaged. Laced with themes of bonding, compassion, resilience, redemption, and hope, the movie is buoyed by realistic performances and a well-rounded narrative that not only emphasizes the importance of overcoming personal adversities but also captures the spirit of companionship and new beginnings.

The film's stunning visuals beautifully capture the rural landscape, against which the story unfolds. The serene town, vast fields, and charming barn offer a picturesque setting that significantly contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the scenes involving horse training are beautifully shot, vividly showcasing the bond between Charlie, Ben, and Shy Boy.

The director, Sean McNamara, best known for his work on family films like 'Soul Surfer', skillfully juggles the multiple themes of the story, effortlessly transitioning from somber moments to those filled with hope, laughter, and growth.

Orphan Horse's screenplay, written by Mark Hefti, delves deep into the complexities of its characters and their relationships, maintaining a grounded and empathetic approach consistently. This, coupled with a compelling narrative structure, paves the way for a deeply moving storytelling experience that resonates with viewers.

In conclusion, Orphan Horse is an emotionally rich film, perfect for those seeking a feel-good movie that offers both depth and entertainment. Irrespective of the viewer's affinity for equestrian themed tales, this film, with its evocative narrative and touching performances, is bound to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're a seasoned movie enthusiast or just looking for a wholesome film for family movie night, Orphan Horse is a worthy pick.