If equines are one of your favorite topics, and you’re always eager to learn more, here are some horse documentaries that you’ll enjoy. These true stories about horses and horse people are enlightening, inspiring, and entertaining!
American Horses
Don’t let the slightly cheesy voiceover on the trailer fool you—this stellar documentary explores the horse’s history in America and the backgrounds of some of America’s most prominent breeds, including the appaloosa, the mustang, the morgan, and the quarter horse. The gorgeous footage of mustang stallions in action alone makes this a worthwhile way to spend an evening.
Wild Horse, Wild Ride
This heartfelt documentary chronicles the journeys of several mustang/human teams who have one hundred days to prepare for the Extreme Mustang Makeover competition and prove what mustangs are capable of. Check out the trailer on YouTube.
Harry and Snowman
Harry and Snowman is an unbelievable yet deeply relatable portrait of a discarded horse and a dedicated horseman who built a priceless bond and reached the top of the show jumping world together. Snowman’s legendary story illustrates how much talent, potential, and heart can exist in the most unexpected individuals.
Down the Fence
Catch a glimpse into the unique lives of top reining riders and trainers as they pursue their passion, build deep bonds with their horses, and travel to the national championships in Reno, Nevada.
Fire on the Hill
The award-winning Fire on the Hill highlights the decades-long cowboy culture of Compton and South Central LA that has helped curb gang violence in the area and has broadened mainstream America’s cultural definition of what it means to be a cowboy.
Equus: Story of the Horse
Learn about horses’ ancient origins, their physical and intellectual traits, and their deep connection with humanity in this epic and informative two-part series by Nature.
Year of the Mustang
This series of videos is part of a YouTube channel and not a documentary produced by a company, but that’s a large part of its authentic charm. Jake Harvath’s 7,000 mile journey through 30 states is a fascinating and intimate look at a horseman pursuing a dream, planning and preparing to make it happen, and trusting in his faithful Mustang companions along the way. The accounts of his travels are simple but spellbinding, and being able to go along for the ride as a viewer feels like a privilege. Plus, Harvath aims to raise awareness about the value and quality of these amazing wild horses.
Fearless
This riveting Netflix series follows a handful of Brazilian bull riders who have reached the top of the PBR. It offers an intimate and unflinching look at the extreme risks these men take and why. While the series is not specifically about horses, rodeo fans will love it, and the athletes exhibit passion and drive that many horse people will relate to. It’s also sure to hold the attention of your non-horse-loving family members.
Buck
This film chronicles the life and journey of acclaimed horse trainer Buck Brannaman, who is famous for developing and popularizing compassionate horse training techniques. The documentary won an audience award at the Sundance Film Festival in 2011.
Cowboys: A Documentary Portrait
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live and work on the open range? While the cowboy lifestyle may seem long gone to some, it’s still a daily reality for many people. This 2018 documentary portrays what life is like on a remote ranch in the Western US, and it’s currently available to stream on Amazon.
The Cowboy and the Queen
This 2024 documentary tells the story of horse trainer Monty Robert’s friendship with Queen Elizabeth II and their joint mission to spread kinder horse training methods all over the world. It’s currently screening at film festivals and isn’t available to stream, but it looks like a must-see, so stay tuned for updates!
Do you have other favorite horse documentaries that we missed? We’d love to include them! Please contact us and let us know.
Photo by Helga from Adobe Stock.
