Review of Hidalgo (2004) by J-Man 24 — 27 Jul 2008
Slightly overblown, only because most of the epic action scenes are supposedly based on a true story, inspirational period film was released shortly after the superior Seabiscuit, which makes it even blander by comparison.
Mortensen is ideal as the experienced racer who has underwent several long distance races with his loyal stallion Hidalgo, but it shouldn't even show its face against such epics as Lawrence of Arabia, but the desert scenery in that film is like a vast ocean compared to the puddle in this one.
Mortensen's Frank Hopkins, a Clint Eastwood-like cowboy with the emotions of a tombstone, rides against the sunset in the Arabian Desert during a three-thousand mile race that is ultimately the last long distance challenge that he and his trusty steed will ever endure.
Some plausible stunts here and there, including a scene in which they must outrun a fierce sandstorm, but it's difficult to view action that is clearly contrived and nearly unbelievable. A one time viewing only.
This review of Hidalgo (2004) was written by J-Man 24 on 27 Jul 2008.
Hidalgo has generally received positive reviews.
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