Movies You Can’t Miss Before Kentucky Derby 2025

There are few more exciting sporting events on the international calendar than the Kentucky Derby.

The first Saturday in May kicks off the Triple Crown series in the United States, with a talented crop of horses aged three chasing immortality. Most racing fans will already be exciting enough about a return to Churchill Downs and seeing history be made in the 151st Derby this year.

However, if you’re looking for some more motivation before getting involved in horse racing free bets, then you can watch some of the most remarkable films centered on the sport.

50 to 1

Although many would like to relive memorable stories from yesteryear, it could be argued that one of the most famous recent Kentucky Derby stories came as recently as 2009 when Mine That Bird sprang the unlikely success.

The story of the famous win has been retold in 50 to 1, starring Skeet Ulrich, Christian Kane, and William Devane. It was released in March 2014 and directed by Jim Wilson. It follows the story of a misfit group from New Mexico, who find themselves on a journey of a lifetime after their horse qualifies for the Kentucky Derby.

The film largely focuses on the owners, and their journey to make it to Churchill Downs to race against the elite of American horse racing. However, there was to be a fairytale success for the group, as Mine That Bird would hold off Pioneerof the Nile and Musket Man to win at odds of 50/1.

Secretariat

There are few more legendary horses in the world of U.S. racing than Secretariat. The equine superstar continues to rank at the top of the list for many when talking about the greatest of all-time, and fans of the sport can learn more about the one-of-a-kind horse in the film called Secretariat.

It was released in 2010 by Disney, and is written by Sheldon Turner and Mike Rich. The film is based on William Nack’s 1975 book, and follows the life of the legendary horse from his early life to superstardom. The film starts at the beginning when Penny Chenery is fighting to keep hold of Meadow Stables.

Soon after, the decision to invest in a new horse is made, with Secretariat foaled. It then follows the horse from his debut at Aqueduct, and temptations to owners to sell for big money before the Derby. The film ends with the memorable scenes following the Belmont Stakes, as Chenery and her family pick up the Triple Crown trophy.

Run For The Roses

If there was a film to get fans in the mood for the Kentucky Derby, then there are few better choices than Run For The Roses. This film was released in 1977 and the American drama is directed by Henry Levin.

It stars Panchito Gomez and Vera Miles, and follows the journey of a young boy called Juanito Hernandez. The boy befriends a nurse who helps bring back a horse to full health following surgery. After the horse is fit to return to the track, Hernandez believes that he has what it takes to get the runner to win the Derby at Churchill Downs.

Despite being released in the 70s, the film remains a cult favourite among racing fans, as it shows all emotional aspects of the sport and the struggles that both horses and jockeys must overcome to reach the pinnacle of the game. As well as the leading cast, Henry Brandon, Stuart Whitman, and Sam Groom all star.

Seabiscuit

We are probably saving the best film till last in this list. The 2003 release of Seabiscuit is largely regarded as one of the greatest horse racing films ever released, and it is loosely based on the real life racing career of the legendary Seabiscuit.

The equine superstar helped transcend a nation during his career, and aided U.S. people through the Great Depression. The story begins in the 20th century when John Pollard’s family is forced to live with a horse racing trainer. Years after, he becomes a jockey, and would become close to a small and lazy horse within the yard. Tom Smith would work his magic as a trainer with the horse to set him on his way to becoming one of the best horses in racing history. The film focuses on the bond between the horse and Pollard, with their friendship allowing them to get through every challenge.

Tobey Maguire stars as the leading character, while Jeff Bridges, and Chris Cooper are excellent in supporting roles. The film achieved wide spread acclaim and was later nominated for seven nominations at the 76th Academy Awards. However, it would ultimately miss out on a prize, with six going to The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.