New Documentary Depicts Horse Ownership Joys

If someone in a bar—no doubt wearing a hat and smoking a cigar—told you the story of Dream Alliance, you'd probably hear them out for entertainment value and then question why real-life doesn't work out that way.

But in this case, the story of Dream Alliance most assuredly is true, and a bar in Wales where you might hear stories that typically stretch the truth plays a central role.

The story of steeplechase Thoroughbred Dream Alliance is depicted in the new documentary, "Dark Horse, The Incredible True Story of Dream Alliance."

Because the twists and turns of this tale are so important to the film, I'll reveal little; but I think it's safe to say that one of the highlights is hearing from the various partners involved in campaigning Dream Alliance. The ownership group came together at a workingman's pub in Wales.

Director Louise Osmond's interviews and story-telling capture the joys—and pains for that matter—of horse ownership, as well as the fun and challenges of being involved in a partnership.

"(Dream Alliance) always made me feel (like) somebody else for the day," partner and breeder Jan Vokes said. "I wasn't 'Janet the Cleaner' anymore. I was 'Janet the Racehorse Owner.' "

The film, which earned the World Cinema Documentary Audience Award at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival, made its U.S. (non-festival) premiere May 2 at the Speed Museum in Louisville, Ky. It will begin a run at the Baxter Avenue Theatres in Louisville May 13, has been released in some large cities already, and more releases are scheduled.