There’s just something about horse racing films that hits differently. Maybe it’s the thunder of hooves pounding down the track, the tension of a photo finish, or those inspiring stories of long shots defying the odds. Whatever it is, these movies have a unique ability to stir the soul and get your adrenaline racing. Whether you’re a veteran turf enthusiast or just like a good underdog story, this list has got you covered. So pop some popcorn, get comfortable, and let’s count down the 10 greatest horse racing movies of all time—beginning at number 10.
10. Jockey
If you’ve ever wondered what it actually feels like to live life on horseback—bodily, emotionally, and spiritually—Jockey delivers. Clifton Collins Jr. provides a moving performance as an aging jockey confronting the end of his days in the saddle, just as a newcomer (who could be his son) comes along. It’s a contemplative, understated film with scenes of racing that place you in the saddle for every shock, jostle, and heartbeat. USA Today said it “was a perfect complement for Kentucky Derby weekend,” and it’s easy to see why.
9. Lean on Pete
Not your standard racetrack feel-good movie, Lean on Pete offers a bleaker, more emotionally charged experience. It’s the story of a young boy who forms a bond with an aging racehorse, and the two go on a survival adventure together. This tough drama is anchored by Charlie Plummer’s raw, heartfelt performance, bringing attention to the frequently ignored lives that exist on the fringes of the sport. It’s haunting, powerful, and beautifully crafted.
8. Hidalgo
Hungry for a mix of horse racing and epic adventure? Hidalgo’s the ticket. Viggo Mortensen plays Frank T. Hopkins, who joins a brutal 3,000-mile race through the Arabian desert on his loyal mustang, Hidalgo. Loosely based on fact, it’s more myth than documentary, but that doesn’t stop it from being fun. Epic landscapes, death-defying stunts, and a tale of survival—it’s a wild ride from start to finish.
7. The Cup
This poignant Australian drama tells the true story of jockey Damien Oliver, who rode to victory in the 2002 Melbourne Cup and was mourning the sudden death of his brother. The Cup is not about the race—it’s about the heartache, the pressure, and the bravery that surrounds it. It’s a powerful tribute to determination, and a testament that sometimes the greatest victories occur away from the track.
6. Dream Horse
An underdog story from top to bottom, Dream Horse is as delightful as it is inspiring. Inspired by the real-life dream of Dream Alliance, a racehorse conceived by a Welsh pub barmaid and her friends, the film follows the triumphs and setbacks of pursuing a dream against all odds. Toni Collette and Damian Lewis deliver in this crowd-pleasing, feel-good film that shows you don’t have to have deep pockets to reach for the stars.
5. Phar Lap
This biopic, in the unfolding of a “movie,” would be accurately as one of Australia’s most iconic racehorses gets a worthy big-screen tribute in this moving biopic. Phar Lap traces the horse’s unlikely rise to stardom—and the deep affection he inspired in the public. The film doesn’t shy away from his tragic and mysterious death, adding another layer of intrigue to his legacy. As Film Threat put it, “Phar Lap was a champion not just on the track, but in the hearts of the people.”
4. Champions
Speak of the heart. Champions is the true story of jockey Bob Champion, who overcame cancer and went back to racing to win the Grand National on Aldaniti, a horse who also fought back from serious injury. A phenomenally human performance is given by John Hurt in this film that’s all about hope, resilience, and the indomitable human-horse connection. It’s not possible not to be affected.
3. National Velvet
This 1944 classic established Elizabeth Taylor as a star and made generations of dreamers possible. National Velvet follows the tale of Velvet Brown, a little girl who pretends to be a jockey to ride her idol horse, The Pie, in the Grand National. It’s movie magic at its finest, with stories of bravery, perseverance, and defying conventions years before girl power became a hashtag.
2. Secretariat
When it is a question of raw racing glory, Secretariat is unbeatable. This Disney drama recounts the life of one of the greatest racehorses in history, complete with powerhouse performances from Diane Lane and John Malkovich. Teeming with energy and emotion, the film captures the astounding Triple Crown run. Film Threat wasn’t being overly dramatic when they declared Secretariat “might be the greatest of all time.”
1. Seabiscuit
At the top of the list is Seabiscuit, the gold standard of horse racing films. It’s the tale of a small, feisty horse that lifted the spirits of a nation amid the Great Depression—brought to vivid life by an all-star cast that features Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges, and Chris Cooper. Not just a sports film, Seabiscuit is about redemption, collaboration, and believing in the improbable. As USA Today described it, this is still the greatest movie ever made about the sport of kings.