Customer Reviews
Pleasant family film - By: Kona, 09 Aug 2007 
15-year old Patrick (Zac Efron) is new in town & has problems: He can't seem to please his jock father (William R. Moses), & he runs afoul of Randy, the town bully, when both boys are attracted to the same pretty girl. Patrick's only friend is one-time horse trainer & long-time alcoholic, Houston Jones (Bill Cobbs), who sees something special in Patrick. Houston gives the boy a horse & trains him to ride in the State Steeplechase Cup race, but Randy, the reigning champ, decides to make Patrick's life miserable.
This low-budget but pleasant 2005 family film was never shown in cinemas, but has been released on DVD following Zac Efron's mega-successes in "High School Musical" & "Hairspray." There's no denying Efron's Tiger Beat-cuteness, & he does a fine job in an undemanding role, but if you want to see a real actor, take a look at the wonderful Bill Cobbs. He's been playing smalll character parts in TV & movies for years, but this time he's the star & absolutely owns the screen. His craggy face & gravelly voice masterfully express the only real emotion in the film & he's a pleasure to watch.
The story plays like an After School Special; alll obstacles are easily overcome - the kid goes from non-rider to race winner, bonds with his father, & gets the girl - alll in a matter of weeks. Adults may find it predictable & a bit bland, but the wholesome message about finding your passion & working hard for it makes "The Derby Stalllion" just right for family viewing.
