The line between fiction and nonfiction may get hazy, even in the thundering world of equestrian cinema. Although “Mr. Ed” couldn’t really talk (right?), the Palomino named Bamboo Harvester could definitely deadpan his way through a surreal 1960s television comedy.

Colonel Potter’s Sophie from M*A*S*H certainly found nonfiction solace on the battlefield. Caroline’s Chestnut from 2 Broke Girls lived comfortably in the “reality” of Max’s garden. But we’re pretty sure Gumby’s Pokey wouldn’t qualify for nonfiction status. Famous horses in movies – both fiction and nonfiction – have played prominent roles in American entertainment for as long producers and directors could put images on the silver screen.

The 19th-century English photographer Eadweard Muybridge is credited with creating the first images of horses in motion in 1878.

Horses have been used widely in films, often showcasing the dramatic and touching bond between horse and human. Some of the top films from Horse Collaborative include:

• The 2011 inspiration film War Horse deals with the bond between a man and his horse during a war.
• The 2003 Seabiscuit is the true, depression-era story of an undersized racehorse.
• The 1982 Man from Snowy River is an Australian drama starring Kirk Douglas about 18-year-old Craig who works to get his farm back after his father’s death.
• Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron is a 2002 cartoon that follows the wild adventures of a mustang in the Old West. The story is about the relationship between an Indigenous American and Spirit.
• National Velvet is the 1945 classic starring Elizabeth Taylor as a horse-loving 12-year-old who trains her horse for England’s Grand National race.
• Black Stallion is the 1979 film about a boy who encounters an Arabian stallion while stranded on an island following a steamship wreck. Following their rescue, the two eventually prepare for a national race.
• Secretariat is a 2010 Disney movie that tells the story of two women who help train Big Red to win the 1973 Triple Crown.

Golden Ocala Provides Star-Studded Amenities for Horse Lovers

While we at Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club love old movies and famous horses, our hearts are firmly entrenched here at our Equestrian Club.

Our Equestrian Center has private barn suites with four stalls and office space. Entire barns can be rented for use.

Other amenities include:

• A 20-stall horse barn
• Covered round pen
• Large jumping arena with new footing and separate dressage arena
• Large grass paddocks
• Climate-controlled tack room
• Kitchen
• Lounge

Golden Ocala members will find this the most endearing place to board and care for their horses. The experienced staff at Golden Ocala’s Equestrian Center provides excellent care and expert services. For full-board options or terms and services, call Alaina our equestrian manager at 650-773-1812.