The Homestretch (1947)

The Homestretch Poster

A young couple's marriage is threatened by the husband's love of horses and the racetrack circuit.

Intro
"The Homestretch" is a 1947 American drama film directed by H. Bruce Humberstone and produced by 20th Century Fox. The movie stars Maureen O'Hara, Cornel Wilde, and Glenn Langan, and provides a riveting tale about horse racing and personal relationships.

Plot Synopsis
The Homestretch links romance, rivalry, and horse racing. The film opens with Leslie Hale (Maureen O'Hara), a rich female, who flees on her wedding day along with her horse trainer, Jock Wallace (Cornel Wilde). They head to Tijuana, Mexico, where Leslie purchases a promising horse, Crown Jewel, with the hope of transforming it into a championship racehorse.

Upon their return, Leslie breaks the news to her family and ex-fiancé, Hammond Oliver (Glenn Langan), about her choice to remain single and devote her life to horse racing. Oliver, harmed by her choice, ends up being a rival, obtaining a noteworthy horse named Speedaway. Leslie's horse, Crown Jewel, sadly, fractures a leg prior to a considerable race; nevertheless, Leslie's decision is unwavered, and she enters Crown Jewel into the Santa Anita Handicap.

Twisted Relationships and Race Excitement
While Leslie focuses on her horse, a romantic stress develops in between her and her trainer Wallace. Meanwhile, Oliver, not able to carry on, consumes over Leslie, resulting in a tragic mishap with Speedaway. In an unexpected twist, Speedaway gets hurt and is unable to race.

At the climax of the film, throughout the much-anticipated Santa Anita Handicap, Crown Jewel, regardless of its fractured leg, takes the winning strike. The victory not just signifies a horse-racing highpoint however also a personal victory for Leslie, marking her change from a ruined heiress to a dedicated horse-racing lover.

Conclusion-- A Blend of Drama and Action
"The Homestretch" surfaces on an enjoyable note, fixing all personal complications. Leslie and Wallace confess their love for each other, and Leslie finally signs the divorce papers, marking completion of her relationship with Oliver. The victory of Crown Jewel seals their victory in both their professional and personal lives.

Overall Impact and Reception
At its core, "The Homestretch" is a gripping drama including wealthy people, enjoy triangles, and the thrilling world of horse racing. The motion picture excellently represents the excitement of a horse race, together with the drama that includes the high-society way of life. The efficiencies of Maureen O'Hara, Cornel Wilde, and Glenn Langan are commendable and form the foundation of the movie.

Upon its release in 1947, "The Homestretch" was received well by the audiences who were trying to find wholesome entertainment. It has been remembered for its engaging storytelling, exhilarating horse racing series, and the compelling romantic subplot. On the whole, this film is quite a fascinating ride from start to end up, just like the Homestretch in an awesome horse race.

Top Cast

  • Cornel Wilde (small)
    Cornel Wilde
    Jock Wallace
  • Maureen O'Hara (small)
    Maureen O'Hara
    Leslie Hale Wallace
  • Glenn Langan (small)
    Glenn Langan
    Bill Van Dyke III
  • Helen Walker (small)
    Helen Walker
    Kitty Brant
  • James Gleason (small)
    James Gleason
    Doc Kilborne
  • Henry Stephenson (small)
    Henry Stephenson
    Don Humberto Balcares
  • Margaret Bannerman (small)
    Margaret Bannerman
    Ellamae Scott
  • Ethel Griffies (small)
    Ethel Griffies
    Aunt Martha
  • Tommy Cook (small)
    Tommy Cook
    Pablo Artigo