Hidalgo ~ Drama DVD Movie Review

"Hidalgo" is very loosely based on the life of long distance horse rider Frank Hopkins in the late nineteenth century. Although there is dispute whether he really did compete in a desert race such as the one depicted in the film, this movie is a very stirring and enjoyable tale. Viggo Mortensen is extremely well cast as a man who is no perfect hero, but a person conflicted by his mixed cultural background, and he easily draws you into this compelling story. The source of the word Hidalgo is from a traditional designation of persons of the Spanish nobility or gentry, and the courage and intelligence of this rugged mustang pony of Spanish origin epitomises the the strength and pride one would expect from any person carrying such a title. Instead of being master and beast, the two main characters are companions with a deep bond that enables this man and his horse to compete against Bedouins riding pure bred Arabian steeds. You can not help but empathise with the pair as they gamely struggle against seemingly insurmountable odds to prove themselves as deserving of their title of the World's Greatest Distance Horse and Rider.