Movie Review by Vivienne Messenger
Starring: Matt Damon, James Cromwell, Daniel Studi
Directors: Kelly Asbury, Lorna Cook
Spirit (narrated by Matt Damon) is a mustang, born and raised in the wild who grows up to become the leader of his herd. His adventures begin one night when he hears the sound of distant music and sees a flickering light in the darkness. Being an adventurous and inquisitive young stallion he ventures into the night to investigate and finds a camp fire and several sleeping cowboys. Unfortunately Spirit manages to disturb them and in the resulting chase Spirit is lassoed and caught.
Sold and taken to a fort, Spirit encounters the Colonel (James Cromwell) who will become his biggest adversary. The colonel sets about enforcing his authority and orders the men under his command to break in the mustang. But Spirit defiantly resists, which leads to him being tied to a post for 3 days without water to weaken him into submission. While he is tethered a cavalry patrol brings in a captured, young Lakota Indian called Little Creek (Daniel Studi). Spirit is mystified that he too is tied up, however they forge a relationship while making a daring escape from the fort together and this is the start of a lasting friendship that will grow into a special bond between them.
There are only three talking characters in the movie as most of the horses and other characters thoughts and feelings are conveyed through inferred looks and movements and substantial parts of the story are told through songs written and sung by Bryan Adams. If you are a Bryan Adams fan, as I am, that’s an even bigger incentive to see it.
The movie is definitely a winner with children and captivates their attention from the opening scenes right the way through – no time wasting trips to the nearest toilet with a fidgety youngster. The animation is excellent switching effortlessly between a mix of tradition 2D animation and 3D CGI.
Children will love SPIRIT: STALLION OF THE CIMARRON and adults-in-tow will be equally well entertained.
