left behind by more than a nose

Rating: 4/10 (28 July 2003)

It is important for me to note that I did not read the source material used as basis for this film, and a good film certainly does not rely on its audience to be familiar with its source material. "Seabiscuit" exemplifies what happens when what appears to be fail-proof material is mishandled.
There are certainly problems when the "documentary" breaks appear more interesting and deep than the main story. For starters, the photographs used to show the state of the nation while this inspiring real story was happening are excellent, but they don't support the ordeals and triumphs of the horse and its supporting cast. They distract because they appear more relevant and concrete. It is hard to care for any characters whose disabilities or personal tragedies are constantly pounded into our consciousness. The overused use of symbols to show the grief of a father (watch those birds burst from the foliage), the rather strange romantic interlude to show the jockey's view of the world, and the unbearable sensitivity that he appears to have with his constant references to high literature; as if this makes the material and his nature more special.
Another thing that troubled me while watching the film is how the races are filmed. It is mostly close ups, and badly framed ones. When one sees the race, the excitement is derived from watching all its participants struggle with reaching the finish line (anyone remembers "Ben Hur". There is constant cutting and the camera appears to be mounted on one of the horses (where's Steadycam when you need it?).
Not all is wasted in this film. Jeff Bridges reacts the best he can to some of the situation, and his magnanimity is demonstrated over and over and over by a rather stale remark. McGuire doesn't acquit himself too well, looking miscast and rather one-dimensional, but it is Chris Cooper's quiet and insightful approach that raises the film from a total waste of time. If only anyone had approached him and consulted him as to how to deal with material to make it transcendental. When he quietly explores with a look and ponders how to help the horse, one wonders at what could have been. Unfortunately, most of the time people are gawking and overreacting at the wonders of "Seabiscuit". Yes, the movie tells us to scream and support the underdog, maybe a little too loud. This film does not respect its audience, it's a bit condescending. At first, it might seem like an important and touching tribute to an American survivor, but I'd rather watch a sequel that does not pretend to be anything else, but 2 hours of fun. "Seabiscuit" could have been a contender in the world of the Silver Screen. Maybe someone will remake it and get it right... next time.