My path into the world of horses began with Black Beauty. I fell in love with the novel as a little girl, and asked my parents for riding lessons, aged seven, so I went full circle when I got the opportunity to write and direct the film.
I became a screenwriter, with a body of work, and at a meeting with the producer Jeremy Bolt, he asked what inspired me.
I blurted out everything I love about the beach scene of the 1970s film The Black Stallion. It's five minutes, set to music and no dialogue, about the beautiful, mysterious communication and connection you can have with a horse.
He said he'd been wanting to remake Black Beauty for about a decade; 10 days later I sent him a 40-page pitch, reimagining and modernising it, and at the producer's request, making Beauty female.
The first day we arrived in South Africa for filming, we dropped our bags at the hotel and went straight to the stables to meet the four Black Beauties and our liberty trainer, Cody.
Liberty training is based on kindness, and the horse has the liberty to accept or reject what you're asking of them.
Denne historien er fra November 30, 2023-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
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Denne historien er fra November 30, 2023-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
'He's a terrier - a very classy terrier'
Jonbon emulates some legendary chasers as a dual Tingle Creek victor, and trainer Dan Skelton scores a seasonal century
Rupert
This beautiful master's horse hates quad bikes and is \"scared of his rug\" but is dearly loved by both Nigel Peel and his son Jamie
London's landmark moments
What makes London so special for dressage fans? Oscar Williams delves into its unique history, speaking to experts about their most treasured memories and the show's remarkable evolution in the sport
Golden oldies take centre stage
The finals at London International are among the most regarded championships on the senior showing circuit. Alex Robinson investigates the finals and what's contributed to their popularity
Winter wrapped up
With the long-range weather forecast suggesting a chilly winter ahead, how can equestrians prepare for the challenges of frost, ice and snow? Stephanie Bateman finds out
Party time
From Whitaker vs Whitaker football matches to a hunting choir roaring carols, top riders know how to let their hair down at Christmastime. Netia Walker unearths the best festive parties
Rocking their world
Rocking horses were once a common fixture in children's playrooms - or a charming trinket on a Christmas tree. Now, some are getting a new lease of life for grown-up enthusiasts, finds Liz Falkingham
Winter watering
Maintaining a horse's water intake is crucial, but can be tricky in the colder months. Karen Coumbe MRCVS explains why, and how to help
Shetland Pony Grand National organiser
Sebastian Garner on whittling down applicants, playing headmaster and the joy of watching Shetlands at full lick
Peder Fredricson
The Swedish flagbearer and four-time Olympic medallist tells Jennifer Donald about 2024's ups and downs, the key to social licence and silver linings
