"Dark Horse" Follows a Barmaid's Horse Breeding Syndicate

At first, Dark Horse is deceptively whimsical, what with scenes of horses frolicking in the lush Welsh countryside. The charmingly sappy film hovers between inspirational equine tale and The Full Monty—the latter mostly due to its portrayal of eccentric, dentally challenged personalities. Louise Osmond's documentary-drama centers on barmaid Jan Vokes, who assembles a syndicate from the working men's club to breed a racehorse, a sport typically reserved for the elite. Though rendered a "feel-good" movie, this underdog saga escapes banality when syndicate members share their life stories, revealing the stark reality that comes with living in a washed-up mining town.

Rated PG.

Critic's Grade: B

Willamette Week