Let me take a minute to recommend a lesser-known but very clever and inspiring movie called Racing Stripes. This is the unlikely story of a baby circus zebra that is left behind in a large carton on a Kentucky back road one dark and rainy night. The farmer who finds it takes the animal home, and his daughter falls in love with the little creature. Meanwhile, the viewer notes that there are barrel racing saddles for horses and other equipment that are in disuse, and there is a fierce antagonism between the main characters and the local equine snobbery. As the little zebra grows, it begins to develop speed and a deep wish to race, and the other animals, all with animation and voices, come to encourage him. As the story develops, it becomes clear that the girl’s mother died in a horse racing accident, and that her father was quite a trainer until that tragic event. Ultimately the zebra races and wins, with tremendous help from his animal buddies. This is a story about difference, about winning, and about overcoming personal loss. It is also hysterically funny and quite entertaining.
Recreation and Sports08 Jan 2012 05:53 am
