Ruffian trailer on ESPN broadcast

[GenuineRisk]

Originally Posted by Balletto

Depends how its delivered to non-racing fans. If the emphasis in on the majesty, talent, and brave heart of the filly, than it wont hurt as much. If the story is truly all about the build to the breakdown and no real story after that, then it fails to help the sport.

One quote i've always held with me is "Without pain there'd be no compassion". She's the equine eqivalent of that for me.

I think Balletto's right in that if it's handled right, I think it won't necessarily turn people off. I liked in the trailer how one of the actors was comparing Ruffian to James Dean, Marilyn Monroe-- silly on one level, yes, but on another level, it sets up an image of an incredible talent who burned so brightly but so briefly- which is a dramatic universality people can connect with. If they can convey that kind of idea-- an athlete who too rare and too special to last, I think it will convey the tragedy without turning into an opportunity for bashing horse racing.

My battered paperback copy of Jane Schwartz' book has a blurb from the Seattle Times' review: "Compelling, informative and ultimately touching. This is a first-class book; Ruffian deserves no less." Fingers crossed we'll be saying the same thing about the movie!