The film follows Penny Chenery (played by Diane Lane), a housewife and mother who inherits Meadow Stables, her father’s struggling horse farm. Despite her lack of experience in the horse racing world, Penny is determined to turn the farm around and make a name for herself in the industry.
In the climax, Penny hires veteran horse trainer Lucien Laurin (played by John Malkovich) and jockey Ron Turcotte (played by Otto Thorwarth) to train and ride her prized horse, Secretariat. Despite facing skepticism and opposition from the male-dominated racing world, Penny and her team believe in Secretariat’s potential and push him to his limits.
As the plot unfolds, Secretariat proves himself to be a remarkable racehorse, winning race after race and capturing the attention of the nation. Penny’s determination and unwavering belief in Secretariat inspire those around her and help her overcome the obstacles standing in her way.
In the resolution, Secretariat goes on to win the Triple Crown, becoming the first horse to do so in 25 years. His victory solidifies Penny’s place in racing history and cements Secretariat’s legacy as one of the greatest racehorses of all time.
The film concludes with Penny and her family celebrating Secretariat’s success and reflecting on the journey that brought them to this moment. They are proud of what they have accomplished together and grateful for the opportunity to witness history in the making.
“Secretariat” is praised for its uplifting story, powerful performances, and breathtaking racing sequences. It celebrates the power of perseverance, the bond between humans and animals, and the triumph of the human spirit, making it a timeless and inspiring film for audiences of all ages.