Dreamer (2005)

Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story (2005) is a warm, uplifting family drama about hope, healing and the bond between humans and animals. When veteran trainer Ben Crane takes in a severely injured racehorse instead of the payment he’s owed, his teenage daughter Cale forms an immediate, fierce attachment to the mare—whom they rename Sonador (Dreamer). As the family nurses the horse back to health, old wounds between father, daughter and grandfather begin to mend, and everyone rallies toward the seemingly impossible goal of getting Sonador back on the track. Expect a mix of quiet emotional scenes and tense, heart-pounding moments: tender rehabilitation sequences, family conversations that slowly repair relationships, and dramatic race-day suspense. The film leans into inspirational beats—perseverance, faith in second chances, and the healing power of love—while delivering satisfying sports drama payoffs when the horse’s future is finally decided. Viewers will likely leave feeling moved and encouraged—there are tearful moments and real stakes, but the overall tone is hopeful and family-friendly. Dreamer is ideal for audiences who enjoy emotional, character-driven sports stories and family films that celebrate resilience and the bonds that bring people back together.

Actors: Kurt Russell, Dakota Fanning, Oded Fehr

Director: John Gatins

Runtime: 106 min

Genres: Drama, Family, Sport

59 /100 6.8 /10 6.3 /10