Spirit Untamed

Lucky travels west with her aunt to visit her estranged father Jim in the small town where she was born. Although their relationship was understandably strained at first, Lucky quickly becomes attached to a wild mustang, which she calls Spirit. Several characters readily comment that the horse has a lot of Spirit, hence the name. But her father doesn't want her to ride any horse, especially one so wild, given that Lucky's mom, Milagro, died in an accident. The ferocious and crafty character of Spirit is an example of the banal anthropomorphism that is present in the film directed by Elaine Bogan and co-directed by Ennio Torresan. The script was written by Kristin Hann, Catherine Nolfi and Auri. And although this connection is quite simple in its cordiality - she feeds him apples, he lets her come to him - Lucky's connection with two new friends she makes in the city gives a real spark to the film. Rider Pru and playful singer Abigail teach her the basics of horse management, and all three make up a lively group. Yes, their main goal here is to prevent a vile horse thief from stealing Spirit and his friends. But along the way they also have a lot of fun, whether it's singing a silly song while riding through the hills or giggling by the fire while frying marshmallows. The fact that they are a diverse trio is a thoughtful bonus, but it would be great to see these actresses in a smarter girl quest.