Shergar (1999)

Shergar Poster

Shergar, Ireland's most decorated thoroughbread and perhaps the greatest race horse of all time, is kidnapped by IRA terrorists and held for a $2 million ransom. Can a young stable boy save Shergar's life... and his own before it's too late?

Summary of "Shergar"
"Shergar", a 1999 movie directed by Dennis C. Lewiston, is motivated by the true story of the well-known Irish racehorse of the very same name that was kidnapped by masked shooters in 1983, presumably by the Irish Republican Army (INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNT). The thoroughbred's disappearance developed a media craze and caused prevalent speculation, however the horse was never recuperated, and Shergar's fate remains a secret to this day. The movie combines elements of criminal offense, drama, and the equestrian world to produce an imaginary narrative around the occasions surrounding the horse's kidnapping.

Plot Summary
The movie fictionalizes the story of Shergar's abduction and proposes a possible result including a young kid's adventurous efforts to conserve the prized horse from its captors. The narrative follows a teenage orphan and steady kid called Kevin, depicted by Alan Barker, who inadvertently becomes involved with Shergar's abductors. The film touches upon the political tension in Ireland at the time however prevents delving too deeply into the convoluted aspects of the conflict to keep the concentrate on the human-animal relationship and the rescue mission.

After being drawn from the Ballymany Stud farm in County Kildare, Shergar is held for ransom. However, negotiations with the horse's wealthy syndicate of owners quickly collapse. The captors, not knowing how to manage a racehorse and unable to extract their wanted ransom, end up being significantly nervous and desperate, resulting in a risky scenario for Shergar.

Turning Point and Escapade
The turning point in the film comes when Kevin, who displays a natural affinity with horses, discovers Shergar's location. He is initially taken as a captive by the abductors, but his equestrian abilities make him the job of looking after the nervous stallion. Developing a relationship with Shergar, Kevin realizes that the horse is in grave threat and chooses to take matters into his own hands in an audacious effort to conserve the horse's life.

Kevin handles to escape with Shergar, triggering across the attractive Irish countryside. What follows is a series of experiences and close calls as the pair evades their pursuers, who are intent on silencing any witnesses and recuperating their valuable possession. Along the way, Kevin and Shergar experience a range of characters that help or hinder their progress.

Conclusion and Impact
The film concludes with a bittersweet tone. The optimistic story provides hope and a sense of redemption for both Shergar and Kevin, as they create a deep bond. Regardless of the preliminary adventure and excitement of their escape, the movie resolves the extreme truth of Shergar's fate, mentioning the truth that historical events did not most likely end well for the horse.

"Shergar" provides a cinematic escape into the "what if" of this unsolved secret. It highlights themes of guts, the unique connections human beings can have with animals, and the resilience of the spirit. Although the plot is purely speculative and imbued with innovative liberties, it provides a heartfelt tribute to the extraordinary racehorse that Shergar was, commemorating him in a story of heroism and friendship.

The film received combined evaluations upon release, with some valuing the family-friendly story, while others criticized its divergence from truth. Regardless, "Shergar" stands as a piece of entertainment that offers an imaginative resolution to among the horse racing world's most long-lasting enigmas.

Top Cast

  • Alan Barker
    Elliott Smyth
  • Billy Boyle (small)
    Billy Boyle
    Carrigan
  • Stephen Brennan (small)
    Stephen Brennan
    Mr. Faloon
  • Gary Cady (small)
    Gary Cady
    S.A.S. Captain Kirkpatrick
  • Denny Cain
    Shop owner
  • Mickey Rourke (small)
    Mickey Rourke
    Gavin O'Rourke
  • Ian Holm (small)
    Ian Holm
    Joseph Maguire
  • David Warner (small)
    David Warner
    Eammon Garrity
  • Paul Ronan (small)
    Paul Ronan
    Lynch
  • Conor Mullen (small)
    Conor Mullen
    Hennity
  • Fintan McKeown (small)
    Fintan McKeown
    Det. Inspector Deely