Winning the Triple Crown, Reelive

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

I’ve always believed that this horse could do it.

Jockey
Jockey

He’s something special, Penny. He can beat them.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

It’s not just about winning; it’s about proving that we are worthy.

Trainer
Trainer

We’ve trained hard. That's what matters.

Jockey
Jockey

I’ll ride him like he’s the fastest horse in the world.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

You know what? He is the fastest horse in the world!

The Call to Trust, Reelive

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

This is my chance to change things.

Husband
Husband

But it’s a risk, Penny.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

The biggest risk is never taking one.

Husband
Husband

You could lose everything.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Or I could gain everything I’ve ever wanted.

Heart and Hooves, Reelive

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

You and I, we’re in this together.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

I see so much of myself in you.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Every setback is just a setup for a comeback.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Let’s show them what we’re made of!

The Race Day Revelation, Reelive

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Today isn’t just about winning; it’s about heart.

Trainer
Trainer

He’s ready, Penny. Trust in him.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

We believe in him! It’s time to run!

Jockey
Jockey

I’ve got this, Penny.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Let’s make history!

Challenge Accepted, Reelive

Critic
Critic

You really think this horse can win?

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

I believe he can do anything.

Critic
Critic

You’re setting yourself up for disappointment.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Or for making history.

Mother and Daughter, Reelive

Daughter
Daughter

Mom, what if it doesn’t work out?

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Then we try again, sweetheart.

Daughter
Daughter

But isn’t that scary?

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Sometimes, the scariest journeys lead to the best destinations.

Moments of Truth, Reelive

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

We faced challenges, but we never gave up.

Trainer
Trainer

That’s true. Each race is a lesson.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

And lessons are just as important as wins.

Team Member
Team Member

We keep pushing forward.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Because victory is only sweeter when you earn it.

The Doubters, Reelive

Family Member
Family Member

This is a bad idea, Penny.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

What’s a bad idea is not believing in him.

Family Member
Family Member

You’re risking everything.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

No, I’m risking nothing by taking this chance.

Horse and Jockey Bond, Reelive

Jockey
Jockey

I can feel him. He trusts me.

Trainer
Trainer

Trust is everything. Don’t push him too hard.

Jockey
Jockey

I won’t. We’re a team.

Trainer
Trainer

Good. Together you’ll create magic.

A Mother’s Resolve, Reelive

Father
Father

Are you sure about this, Penny?

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

I’ve never been more sure of anything.

Father
Father

You could lose everything we built.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Or I could build something even bigger.

Heart and Grit, Reelive

Trainer
Trainer

He’ll bounce back. He has the heart.

Team Member
Team Member

We just need to keep believing.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Heart wins races. And we have plenty.

Trainer
Trainer

Then we’ll prove it.

Sibling Support, Reelive

Brother
Brother

Penny, it’s a dangerous world.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

So is life. But dangers can’t stop me.

Brother
Brother

I just want to protect you.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

And I want to chase my dreams.

Against All Odds, Reelive

Other Owner
Other Owner

You really think your horse can compete with mine?

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Not just compete—he’ll win.

Other Owner
Other Owner

You’re dreaming.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

And in dreams, we find our greatest strengths.

Last-Minute Decisions, Reelive

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

What if I’ve missed something?

Trainer
Trainer

We’ve prepared well. Don’t hesitate.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

I just want to make sure we’re ready.

Team Member
Team Member

We are. Trust in him.

Resilience, Reelive

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Every step I’ve taken was for a reason.

Mother
Mother

And those reasons matter.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

I want to honor our legacy.

Mother
Mother

And you will. Keep pushing forward.

Final Moments Before the Race, Reelive

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

You’ve made me believe in miracles.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Whatever happens, we’ve already won in my heart.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

Run your race. Just be you.

Penny Chenery
Penny Chenery

I’ll be right here waiting for you.

Penny Chenery

But you don't have to be a dad to be a father, you just have to be there at the right time.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

Do you know what you’re doing? Because if you’re going to do this, you’re going to do it right.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

I can do this. I have to do this.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Lucien Laurin

It’s not just a race. It’s a challenge to find out what you’re made of.

Lucien Laurin

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

He’s got the heart of a champion.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

You have to take a leap of faith.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

I did not come this far to only come this far.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

There’s a time for everybody to just stand up and say, 'This is what I want.'

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Lucien Laurin

Every great champion has the ability to be a great champion.

Lucien Laurin

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

Winning is everything. But it’s also about how you win.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

He’s a gift from the gods.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

If you don't ask, the answer is always no.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

You can’t let fear get in the way of your dreams.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Lucien Laurin

A race is not just about a horse, it’s about its heart.

Lucien Laurin

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

Sometimes you have to take a chance to make history.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

He’s not just great. He’s extraordinary.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

The only reason I won is because I believed I could.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Lucien Laurin

You make your own luck.

Lucien Laurin

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

Everything is riding on this.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

When you believe in something, you have to fight for it.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive
Penny Chenery

He’s got what it takes, and I’m going to prove it.

Penny Chenery

Secretariat, Reelive

The Greatest

The Greatest by Sia, Inspirational montage highlighting Secretariat's training and racing

Hold On

Hold On by Wilson Phillips, Emotional scene before the final race

I Believe

I Believe by Yvonne Elliman, Celebratory moment after Secretariat's victory

Unchained Melody

Unchained Melody by The Righteous Brothers, Romantic scene in the film


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The Birth of a Champion

In a quiet barn, Penny Chenery, the owner, watches as the horses are born. She eagerly anticipates Secretariat's arrival. When Secretariat is born, it’s clear he's special; he stands up immediately, showcasing his strength and vitality. This moment is filled with hope and promise, symbolizing the beginning of an incredible journey. Penny’s excited reaction sets the emotional tone for the film.

Context: This scene establishes Secretariat not just as a horse, but as an extraordinary being, foreshadowing the greatness that lies ahead.

Penny Takes Over

After her father's passing, Penny Chenery finds herself in a tough spot. She steps up to take charge of the family's failing horse business. With determination in her eyes, she faces skepticism from the male-dominated world of racing. This moment is crucial as it showcases her resilience and sets her on the path to greatness.

Context: Penny's struggle to be taken seriously highlights her unwavering commitment and the challenges she faces as a woman in a man's world.

The First Race

As Secretariat runs his maiden race, excitement buzzes in the air. The camera zooms in on Penny's nervous yet hopeful expression. The tension builds as the horses thunder down the track. When Secretariat wins, it feels like a validation of Penny's faith. Her joy and relief are palpable, connecting deeply with the audience.

Context: This race serves as the first test of Penny’s trust in Secretariat, establishing their important bond.

The Fight for Secretariat

Facing pressure from investors to sell Secretariat, Penny stands her ground. The pivotal moment comes when she passionately defends her horse’s worth, declaring she can’t sell the champion she believes in. Her words resonate with empowerment as she asserts her beliefs.

Context: This scene emphasizes Penny’s growth and determination, showcasing the deep bond she shares with Secretariat.

The Kentucky Derby

The atmosphere is electric as Secretariat enters the Derby. Penny's nerves are evident, but her confidence grows as she watches him. The moment he starts to surge ahead, the crowd goes wild. The visuals of him taking the lead are breathtaking, with dramatic music heightening the emotional weight.

Context: This marks a significant milestone in both Secretariat's and Penny's journey, symbolizing their struggles and triumphs.

Setting a Record

Secretariat races with unrivaled speed, breaking the record at the Belmont Stakes. The camera captures the disbelief and awe on Penny's face as she realizes what is happening. The slow-motion shots of Secretariat crossing the finish line in front are exhilarating and emotional.

Context: This victory not only secures his legacy but also solidifies Penny's role as a powerful figure in horse racing.

Family Bonds

In a heartfelt moment, Penny shares a quiet conversation with her daughter about the challenges she faces. This intimate exchange reveals Penny’s vulnerability and her dual role as a mother and a champion. The atmosphere is warm, showing how family can be a source of strength.

Context: This scene deepens the viewer's understanding of Penny’s motivation, highlighting her desire to succeed for her family.

Facing Doubts

Following a setback, Penny questions whether she made the right choices. Her discussion with her husband showcases her internal struggles. The moment when she gathers her courage to continue reminds viewers of the power of resilience.

Context: This scene humanizes Penny, revealing that even strong leaders have moments of doubt.

The Reunion with Secretariat

Penny visits the barn to see Secretariat after his incredible win. She tenderly caresses him while speaking softly, acknowledging the hard road they've traveled together. The bond between horse and owner is palpable, merging love and respect.

Context: This moment exemplifies the emotional connection that main characters share, deepening the audience’s investment in their journey.

The Mixed Reactions

As Secretariat achieves fame, people react differently. While some celebrate, others express jealousy and skepticism. The contrasting emotions depicted in this scene showcase how success can invite both adoration and criticism.

Context: This scene illustrates the complicated nature of fame and success within a competitive world.

The Moment of Triumph

During the Belmont Stakes, the camera focuses on Penny’s face as she watches Secretariat run. Her mix of hope and fear encapsulates her entire journey. When he crosses the finish line in an astonishing lead, the victory feels not only like a win on the track but a personal victory for Penny.

Context: This triumph serves as the ultimate payoff to the struggles Penny has endured, reinforcing the film’s themes of perseverance.

The Emotional Speech

After Secretariat wins the Triple Crown, Penny delivers a heartfelt speech about dreams and hard work. Her words resonate deeply with the audience as she reflects on the journey and the sacrifices made. It's an inspiring moment filled with hope.

Context: This speech encapsulates the film's core message about believing in oneself and the power of dreams.

Victory Lap

Penny takes a victory lap on the track with Secretariat after the Belmont Stakes. This moment is filled with celebration, joy, and a sense of accomplishment. The visuals capture the exhilaration and pride as they ride together, surrounded by cheering fans.

Context: This celebration is not just of victory but also of the bond and shared journey between Penny and Secretariat.

Facing Adversity

Despite the highs of winning, Penny faces financial woes that threaten her legacy. In a tense conversation, she navigates through options and shows her determination to keep Secretariat safe. This moment illustrates her resilience in the face of adversity.

Context: This external conflict raises the stakes, reinforcing Penny's determination to triumph against the odds.

The Relationship with Lucien

The growing friendship between Penny and her trainer, Lucien, is highlighted in a candid moment where they discuss racing strategies. Their respectful banter shows their deepening trust and collaboration, pivotal for Secretariat's success.

Context: This bond emphasizes the importance of teamwork and mutual respect in achieving greatness.

The Farewell

In a poignant moment, Penny says goodbye to Secretariat as he retires. Her tears flow freely as she realizes the end of an era. This scene encapsulates love, gratitude, and the bittersweet nature of endings, making it emotionally charged.

Context: This farewell signifies not just the end of his racing career but also the deep impact he had on Penny's life.

The Legacy of Secretariat

Towards the end, the narrator reflects on Secretariat's incredible achievements and legacy. Archive footage emphasizes the historical significance of his wins. The visuals compel the audience to appreciate how he changed the world of horse racing.

Context: This final note serves to encapsulate the entire journey of Secretariat and Penny, ensuring the audience remembers their legacy.

Defying Expectations

Penny makes the bold decision to enter Secretariat in the Triple Crown races despite the doubts from others. This moment is filled with tension as she relies on her intuition and belief in her horse. Her confidence slowly builds as she prepares for the races.

Context: This highlights her unwavering faith in Secretariat and sets the stage for the incredible journey ahead.

The Power of Determination

As the pressure mounts before the Derby, Penny has a moment of self-reflection. In a quiet space, she gathers herself, with visuals of her determination etched on her face. This builds anticipation as she prepares to support Secretariat fully.

Context: This internal struggle showcases the theme of determination and the power of belief, setting the emotional backdrop for the races.

Surreal Victory

After winning the first leg of the Triple Crown, Penny stands in awe as Secretariat basks in the glory. She smiles as she realizes that dreams can come true when teamwork and faith intertwine. This moment is surreal, and the cinematography beautifully captures the elation.

Context: This win is a pivotal moment in the story, showing the beginning of Secretariat's legendary status.

A Mother's Heart

Penny shares a touching moment with her children after a hard-fought race. They celebrate their mother's win, illustrating how family plays a crucial role in supporting dreams. The warmth and intimacy of this scene bring a sense of balance to the competitive storyline.

Context: This scene emphasizes the theme of family support, illustrating that personal victories are shared experiences.

The Moment of Reckoning

During a heated moment with her investors, Penny stands firm against selling Secretariat, declaring, 'He’s not for sale!' Her resolve shines through, revealing her commitment to her values and to Secretariat. This pivotal confrontation is fraught with tension.

Context: This moment signifies Penny's evolution into a strong leader who prioritizes her beliefs and relationships over commercial interests.

The Stirring Speech before the Belmont

Before the Belmont race, Penny addresses her team, delivering a motivational speech that captures the spirit of perseverance. She recounts the journey, invoking feelings of pride and unity. The emotional impact resonates with the audience as they prep for a significant moment.

Context: This speech encapsulates the essence of teamwork and sets a powerful tone for the climax of the story.


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Real Horse Racing Footage

The filmmakers used a combination of real horse racing footage and digital effects to create some of the races in the film.

Why it matters: This choice brought authenticity to the racing scenes, allowing viewers to feel the thrill of Secretariat’s actual victories, while the seamless editing maintained immersion.

Diane Lane's Commitment

Diane Lane spent significant time with the real Penny Chenery, studying her mannerisms and spirit before filming.

Why it matters: This extensive preparation allowed Lane to deliver a nuanced performance that captured Chenery's tenacity, making her character's journey resonate with audiences.

The Use of CGI

There were various instances where CGI was used to enhance the horse’s appearances, making them look more impressive and majestic.

Why it matters: This technique provided a heightened reality that elevated the racing sequences, making Secretariat’s presence feel almost mythical.

Location Filming Challenges

Filming took place at multiple race courses, including the famous Churchill Downs, but many scenes were shot in the rain, complicating equipment and lighting.

Why it matters: The adverse weather added a layer of authenticity to the film's depiction of the racing world, where conditions are often unpredictable, enhancing the drama of the narrative.

The Horse's Training

Several thoroughbreds were trained specifically for their roles in the movie, and the filmmakers worked closely with professional trainers.

Why it matters: The training ensured that the horse actors could perform their stunts convincingly, resulting in scenes that showcased the speed and agility crucial to the story.

Authenticity in Costume Design

The costume team researched period-accurate outfits for the 1970s setting, including hairstyles and racing jerseys.

Why it matters: Authentic costumes helped transport viewers back in time, enhancing the film’s overall historical accuracy and immersion.

John Malkovich's Character

John Malkovich's portrayal of Lucien Laurin was inspired by real-life interactions with the former trainer, bringing his eccentricities to life.

Why it matters: Malkovich's distinctive performance added depth to the relationship between trainer and horse, illustrating the passion behind Secretariat's training.

Secretariat's Unique Training Schedule

The production closely mirrored Secretariat's actual training schedule, assigning specific times for filming to emulate his daily routine.

Why it matters: This commitment to authenticity made the training montages impactful and informed viewers about the discipline required in the world of racing.

A Unique Director Perspective

Director Randall Wallace chose to frame the story around Penny Chenery’s emotional journey instead of focusing solely on the horse.

Why it matters: This perspective allowed audiences to connect not just with the horse's triumphs, but also with human resilience and passion, deepening the emotional experience.

A Filming Accident

During a race sequence, a horse got spooked and darted unexpectedly, resulting in a scene that captured genuine panic.

Why it matters: This moment, though initially alarming, brought a raw authenticity to the racing scenes that heightened tension for viewers.

Diane Lane's Equine Experience

Prior to filming, Diane Lane rode horses to prep for her role, gaining insights into the bond between horse and rider.

Why it matters: Her experience added a layer of realism to her portrayal, showcasing the relationship that is central to the film's narrative.

Emotional Soundtrack

The film’s score, composed by Nick Glennie-Smith, was recorded with a full orchestra to evoke strong emotions during critical moments.

Why it matters: The sweeping score underscored the triumphs and struggles of the story, enhancing the emotional weight of key scenes.

Inspirational Source Material

The screenplay was adapted from the book 'Secretariat: The Making of a Champion' by William Nack, who was involved in the film's production.

Why it matters: Having the original author involved ensured that the film remained faithful to the truth of Secretariat's story while also appealing to new audiences.

An Inaccurate Start Date

Initial plans to film the movie were delayed due to casting challenges and developing a compelling script, pushing production back nearly a year.

Why it matters: This delay allowed the filmmakers to refine their vision, ultimately leading to a more polished final product that resonated well with audiences.

Creating the Belmont Stakes Scene

The final race was filmed over several days, with each day meticulously planned to capture different angles and emotions.

Why it matters: This careful choreography helped create an unforgettable climax, showcasing Secretariat's legendary final race in a visually stunning manner.

Penny Chenery's Cameo

The real Penny Chenery made a cameo appearance in the film, appearing during scenes of the race at Belmont Park.

Why it matters: Her presence served as a nod to authenticity, grounding the story in reality and providing audiences with a connection to the real events.

Training Horses for Film

The production required a team of trainers to teach the horse actors specific movements and cues for filming.

Why it matters: This attention to detail ensured that every racing scene felt realistic, allowing audiences to become fully invested in both the races and the characters involved.

Legacy of the Film’s Message

The film was promoted heavily around themes of perseverance, teamwork, and breaking barriers, resonating with audiences beyond just horse racing.

Why it matters: This broader messaging contributed to the film's lasting appeal, allowing it to inspire viewers in various walks of life.

Audience Impact

Test screenings indicated that audiences responded strongly to the human element of the story, prompting the filmmakers to emphasize those aspects in the final cuts.

Why it matters: This change improved the film's emotional depth, resonating with viewers who could relate to the personal struggles alongside the athletic triumphs.


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