9 Actors in Movie "Secretariat" and Their Stellar Performances

The 2010 biographical sports drama "Secretariat" chronicles the rise of the legendary racehorse and his unlikely victory in the 1973 Triple Crown. The film stars a talented ensemble cast, each delivering memorable performances that bring the characters to life.

1. Diane Lane as Penny Chenery

Lane portrays Penny Chenery, the determined owner of Secretariat. Her nuanced performance captures Chenery's resilience, tenacity, and unwavering belief in her horse.

2. John Malkovich as Lucien Laurin

Malkovich shines as Lucien Laurin, the eccentric yet brilliant trainer of Secretariat. His enigmatic portrayal brings depth and complexity to the character.

3. Dylan Walsh as John Tweedy

Walsh delivers a convincing performance as John Tweedy, the trusted veterinarian who becomes an integral part of Secretariat's team.

4. Kevin Costner as Jim McKay

Costner appears as Jim McKay, the renowned sportscaster who provides evocative commentary on Secretariat's historic victories.

5. Nelsan Ellis as Eddie Sweat

Ellis portrays Eddie Sweat, a skilled groom who forms a deep bond with Secretariat. His portrayal highlights the importance of the human-animal connection in racing.

6. Scott Glenn as Ogden Phipps

Glenn embodies Ogden Phipps, a wealthy horse owner who becomes both a rival and an ally to Chenery.

7. Margo Martindale as Elizabeth Ham

Martindale portrays Elizabeth Ham, the skeptical but loyal secretary to Chenery. Her performance adds humor and warmth to the film.

8. James Cromwell as Arthur Jones

Cromwell appears as Arthur Jones, a seasoned track announcer who witnesses and narrates Secretariat's monumental achievements.

9. Fred Thompson as Hal Boggs

Thompson plays Hal Boggs, a powerful congressman who initially opposes Chenery's bid to run Secretariat in the Triple Crown.

Behind-the-Scenes Insights

• Box Office Success: "Secretariat" grossed over $60 million worldwide, making it a commercial success.

• Critical Acclaim: The film received generally positive reviews, with critics praising the performances, screenplay, and emotional impact.

• Academy Award Nominations: "Secretariat" was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Score.

Tips and Tricks to Enhance Movie Viewing

• Pay Attention to the Details: Note the intricate costumes, props, and sets that recreate the era of the 1970s.

• Listen Closely to the Dialogue: The script features witty and emotionally resonant lines that reveal the characters' motivations and struggles.

• Observe the Body Language: The actors' physical performances communicate subtle nuances and unspoken emotions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming it's Just a Horse Race: "Secretariat" transcends the realm of sports to explore themes of ambition, family, and triumph.

• Focusing Only on the Main Characters: The supporting cast members deliver equally impressive performances that contribute to the film's overall success.

• Underestimating the Emotional Impact: Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster as the film's narrative unfolds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is "Secretariat" a True Story?

Yes, the film is based on the real-life story of Secretariat, the Triple Crown-winning racehorse.

2. How Accurate is the Film?

While the film takes some creative liberties, it generally adheres to the key events and personalities involved in Secretariat's story.

3. What Makes "Secretariat" So Special?

The film's compelling characters, stunning visuals, and inspiring message of perseverance make it a timeless classic.

4. Who Composed the Soundtrack?

The original score for "Secretariat" was composed by Nick Glennie-Smith.

Tables for Further Insight

| Box Office Results |
|---|---|
| Domestic Gross | $53,058,621 |
| Worldwide Gross | $60,108,621 |

| Critical Reception |
|---|---|
| Rotten Tomatoes Fresh Rating | 72% |
| Metacritic Score | 57 out of 100 |

| Awards and Nominations |
|---|---|
| Academy Award for Best Original Score | Nominated |
| Critics' Choice Award for Best Sports Movie | Won |