Compelling rendition of the novel

Rating: 9/10 (10 August 2003)

Seabiscuit, an adaptation of the novel by Laura Hillenbrand, works well by not straying too far from the original storyline. Jockey Red Pollard, played by Tobey Maguire, is the assumed protagonist of the film, suffering hardships which set him back yet never prohibit him achieving the American Dream. Red's story, the story of a man overcoming all odds to achieve his goal, is enhanced by the era of the Great Depression upon which most of the film operates. The facts presented, one can relate better to the story of Red than the fairytale of a handsome prince who, by birth, happened to own all the horses on his father's ranch and then one day decided to race. Indeed, Chris Cooper's portrayal of an eccentric trainer and rendition of the middle-class man who toiled to become a successful enterepeneur, are particular and vivid, and add to the realism of the time frame and story. The transition from the gaudy era of the 1920s to the virtual ghettos and slums which pillaged much of America during the 1930s is not as clean as it could have been but, overall, is still nice. The backdrop of a narrator helps smooth things over during the movie, providing some nice statistical data for the history-buff and novice alike. Some of this narration is joined by movie stills, which give the audience a very clear picture of what might be happening during the 1920s and 1930s. As with all artistic gimmicks, some work and some don't -- in this case, the still frames serve well for some scenes but can spoil others, as if insulting the audience's intelligence by saying 'you're not smart or creative enough to provide any pictures by yourself so we have to give you photos.'
Gimmick or not, Seabiscuit is fresh in that it is a faithful adaptation of a novel with excellent actors. Tobey Maguire truly shines in this film and, if he has done no other excellent work to distinguish himself, this film will surely make his reputation as a serious actor. Jeff Bridges turns in a sturdy performance, complementing Tobey Maguire's character very well. Chris Cooper is also great in a supporting role, and fans of William H. Macy will be glad to see his mug on the screen delivering some funny parts.