Ruffian
Ruffian

Movie spotlight

Ruffian

2007
Movie
89 min
English

Ruffian is an American made-for-television movie that tells the story of the U.S. Racing Hall of Fame Champion thoroughbred filly Ruffian who went undefeated until her death after breaking down in a nationally televised match race at Belmont Park on July 6, 1975 against the Kentucky Derby winner, Foolish Pleasure. Made by ESPN Original Entertainment, the film is directed by Yves Simoneau and stars Sam Shepard as Ruffian's trainer, Frank Whiteley. The producers used four different geldings in the role of Ruffian. Locations for the 2007 film included Louisiana Downs in Shreveport, Louisiana and Belmont Park in Elmont, New York.

Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Director: Terence Night CloserGenres: Documentary, Sport

Plot Summary

This documentary chronicles the extraordinary life and tragic death of the phenomenal filly Ruffian, considered by many to be the greatest racemare in American history. It delves into her unparalleled career on the racetrack, her fierce competitive spirit, and the shocking circumstances surrounding her final race. The film captures the raw emotion and profound impact Ruffian had on the world of thoroughbred racing and its fans.

Critical Reception

Ruffian received widespread critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its compelling narrative, evocative archival footage, and heartfelt tribute to a legendary equine athlete. Critics lauded the documentary for its ability to capture the power and tragedy of Ruffian's story, making it a must-watch for racing enthusiasts and general audiences alike.

What Reviewers Say

  • A deeply moving and ultimately heartbreaking portrayal of a racing legend.

  • Captures the speed, power, and tragic beauty of Ruffian's career.

  • Essential viewing for anyone interested in horse racing history.

Google audience: Audience reviews consistently praise the film's emotional impact and detailed look at Ruffian's career, often highlighting the sadness of her ending.

Fun Fact

Despite the documentary's focus on her racing career, Ruffian was actually a descendant of the legendary Man o' War, further cementing her place in racing royalty.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review