Seabiscuit (2003 Gary Ross & scr)

Based on Laura Hillenbrand's factual 'Seabiscuit: An American legend' (2001), Ross's screenplay is a model of economic story-telling (well served by William Goldenberg's fabulous editing) and strives to works visually whenever possible. Film, screenplay, editor, cameraman John Schwartzman (The Amazing Spider-Man, Saving Mr Banks), production designer Jeannine Oppelwell, costumes and sound were all nominated.

Tobey Maguire's good as 'red', Jeff Bridges exudes warmth, Chris Cooper is staunchly reliable. With: Ed Lauter, Sam Bottoms, William H Macy, Elizabeth Banks, Eddie Jones, Gary L Stevens (fellow jockey).

Depression setting well caught, broken people vs. broken animals, second chances. Many sweet and funny moments, subtleties. Fabulously shot and ridden horse racing scenes featuring a variety of horses (both real and not) as the eponymous animal.