Variety
Burlinson is very effective as the shy stable-boy who becomes devoted to the courageous horse.
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Phar Lap
Australian family drama on Phar Lap, the champion Thoroughbred racehorse that gripped the public's imagination during the 1930s depression. From humble beginnings in Timaru, New Zealand, the big bold chestnut would reign as king of the turf winning a Melbourne Cup, two Cox Plates, an AJC Derby and 19 others.
Like Pavlova and Crowded House, both sides of the ditch have claimed Phar Lap as their own. In truth he was born and foaled in New Zealand, trained and raced in Australia. The split continued after death: his skeleton is currently on display in Te Papa Wellington, while his heart is stored at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra.
Less1983Rating: PG107 minsAustralia
Kids & FamilySportTrue Story & Biography
- Director:
- Simon Wincer ('Free Willy', 'The Phantom', 'Quigley Down Under')
- Writer:
- David Williamson
- Cast:
- Tom BurlinsonRichard MorganRobert GrubbRon Leibman
Phar Lap | Awards
Best Music, Sound and Editing at the Australian Film Institute Awards 1983
Phar Lap | Reviews
88%8 reviewsRotten Tomatoes® Score
All reviews on Rotten Tomatoes
Time Out
The sight of the animal racing, shot in slow motion, fully reveals the beauty of the power and effort needed to win; less enjoyment, however, is to be had from the human characters.
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The New York Times
As much of a crowd pleaser as the champion Australian race horse for whom it is named... In a gently rousing style that should appeal in equal measure to adults and children.
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