A documentary film that tries and fails to excuse a group of people's persistent abuse and risk of and to an animal even after it became abundantly clear that the sentient being was ailing, by drawing on the joy and sense of community it brought to its 'owners.' It tries hard to convince its audience that they had a counter-cultural care for the animal, when in fact they pressed Dream Alliance harder and further than is the norm, and showed an exceptional disregard for its welfare, particularly in its final years. It makes for uncomfortable viewing, even to those less inclined to concerns for animal welfare in the increasingly controversial sport of horse-racing. This story could have provided a fascinating context for confronting real issues, but instead avoids even acknowledging them, and ends on a sickening post-script of the revenue this now disabled being produced for its owners.
Review of Dark Horse
