Flash [VHS]
When it comes to films about a lasting friendship between a boy and his horse, it's hard to follow in the footsteps of the 1979 classic,The Black Stallion. Nonetheless,Flashmakes a valiant effort. Set in a rural Southern town, the story revolves around the title character, a 2-year-old racehorse who is the prized possession of 14-year-old Connor Strong (played by Lucas Black fromSling Blade). When financial troubles force Connor's father (Brian Kerwin) to join the merchant marines and head to sea for five months, Connor's idyllic life begins to unravel. His grandmother (Ellen Burstyn) becomes sick and dies, the family home faces foreclosure, and Connor is forced to sell Flash to an unruly owner who beats the beloved horse. Such spiraling misfortune could be easily discounted as formulaic and emotional manipulation, were it not for the endearing scenes between Connor and Flash, which horse-lovers will cherish. Lucas Black pulls off a commendable performance, especially at the film's end, as Connor rescues Flash and together they set off on a cross-country journey to reunite with Connor's father. (Ages 8 and older.)--Lynn Gibson