Lesson 12

[John P. Hallar]

Subject line: John P. Hallar’s Seabiscuit Analysis

What I learned doing this assignment is how to show, not tell BUT also HOW TO find and deliver profound moments in my scripts.

Seabiscuit’s First Victory:

What Made It Profound: Seabiscuit’s first major victory is a pivotal moment as it establishes the horse’s potential and resilience. The scene symbolizes the triumph of an underdog and marks the beginning of Seabiscuit’s journey from an overlooked racehorse to a symbol of hope.

Red Pollard’s Personal Struggles:

What Made It Profound: Scenes depicting Red Pollard’s personal struggles, including his fractured relationship with his family and his battles with injury and poverty, add depth to his character. These moments illustrate the challenges faced by the human protagonists and contribute to the overall theme of resilience and redemption.

Seabiscuit’s Match Race with War Admiral:

What Made It Profound: The match race between Seabiscuit and War Admiral is a climactic and emotionally charged scene. It symbolizes the culmination of Seabiscuit’s journey and the collective efforts of the team. The triumph over the highly favored War Admiral underscores the power of determination and the ability to overcome overwhelming odds.

Charles Howard’s Reflection on Loss:

What Made It Profound: Charles Howard’s reflections on the loss of his son and the impact of the Great Depression on his life provide a poignant and contemplative moment. It deepens the emotional complexity of the film, highlighting the personal struggles and losses that individuals endured during a challenging era.

The Rehabilitation of Seabiscuit:

What Made It Profound: Scenes depicting Seabiscuit’s rehabilitation, both physically and emotionally, after being considered difficult and damaged, showcase the transformative power of care and understanding. The horse’s journey becomes a metaphor for personal healing and redemption.

Tom Smith’s Silent Connection with Seabiscuit:

What Made It Profound: Tom Smith’s silent and intuitive connection with Seabiscuit stands out. The scenes where Smith understands the horse’s needs without words emphasize the profound bond between humans and animals. It speaks to the unspoken language of empathy and understanding.

The Aftermath of Victory:

What Made It Profound: The aftermath of Seabiscuit’s victories, especially the impact on the nation during the Great Depression, adds societal significance to the narrative. It portrays the collective yearning for symbols of hope and resilience during difficult times.

Red Pollard’s Redemption Ride:

What Made It Profound: Red Pollard’s redemption ride on Seabiscuit, especially after recovering from a severe injury, symbolizes personal triumph over adversity. The scene highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the power of determination to overcome physical and emotional challenges.