Review of Seabiscuit (2003) by Erica H — 12 Mar 2011

3: It's impossible for me to not enjoy anything with Elizabeth Banks in it, and this is certainly one of the better films she's been involved with, even if she isn't given much to do. I'd actually say I greatly prefer Secretariat.

I don't get that same sense of athletic rush I do when viewing a picture like Secretariat. It doesn't transport me into a race/competitive environment in the same way. It is still terribly entertaining and has been a reliable companion over multiple viewings, but it isn't top notch.

This doesn't apply solely to this film, but I don't think I will ever get over the obviously artificial aspect of close-up horse riding shots (where the horses head is just out of frame and the neck bobs forward and backward); it is so ridiculous it pulls me out of the story each and every time.

The story seems to jump around a bit too much and take in too large a chunk of history; Secretariat is more focused. It is also more inspirational and character-driven. The characters here have begun to seem a bit too tired and clichà (C)d, as has the story.

I'd take Cinderella Man over this any day of the week.