Horses. In film and television history, they're everywhere.
They can be the noble steed upon which the hero rides off into the sunset or, in some cases, they can even have a shotgun and walk around on hind legs. Looking at you, BraveStarr. To celebrate the launch of the Dublin Horse Show, from July 20th to July 24th, we've counted down the five most recognisable horses in film and television history.
If you've got some of your own, gallop down to the comments and let us know if it's yay or neigh to our choices.
5. ARTAX from The NeverEnding Story
No joke, Artax walking into the Swamp of Sadness was absolutely horrific and traumatising as a child. We've never fully recovered and, to be honest, every time we see a white horse, we legitimately tear up. If they ever start handing out Oscars for horses, Artax needs to get a retroactive Horse Oscar. ARTAX! YOU GOTTA MOVE! MOOOOVE PLEASE! DON'T QUIT ARTAX! ARTTTAAAAXXX!
4. BLACK BEAUTY from Black Beauty TV Series
Sure, it's a black horse and he was more than a handful, but what a beauty. Also, that theme song is embedded in popular culture and any time you see a horse galloping, that should be playing somewhere in the background.
3. THIRTY-THIRTY from BraveStarr
This show featured a talking horse that also carried a shotgun and made horse-related puns. If you don't think BraveStarr was the greatest cartoon from the '80s, you can get out and walk, pal.
2. SHADOWFAX from Lord of the Rings
Not only was Shadowfax so famous that he literally stopped Legolas in his tracks, he was able to jump an entire wall of Uruk-hai and charge right into the middle of battle. Listen to that score by Howard Shore when Shadowfax rides out of nowhere to come to Gandalf's aid. Spine-tingling.
1. MAXIMUS from Tangled
Maximus was able to fight with a sword, wag his tail like a dog and was also an expert tracker. You literally couldn't get a better horse than Maximus.
With an array of national & international show jumping competitions and world class equestrian entertainment, great shopping, delicious food, music & fantastic daily entertainment, the Dublin Horse Show has something for everyone.
Tickets to the 2016 Dublin Horse Show are on sale now.
As an avid enthusiast with a deep passion for both equestrian pursuits and cinematic history, my extensive knowledge allows me to delve into the intersection of horses in film and television with precision. Having studied the portrayal of horses in various media forms, I bring a nuanced understanding of the cultural impact and artistic significance that these majestic creatures hold in the entertainment industry.
Now, let's dissect the concepts mentioned in the article and provide additional insights:
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Dublin Horse Show:
- The Dublin Horse Show is a prestigious event that showcases national and international show jumping competitions.
- It features world-class equestrian entertainment, attracting participants and spectators from diverse backgrounds.
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Artax from The NeverEnding Story:
- Artax is a character, a white horse from "The NeverEnding Story," known for the emotionally intense scene in the Swamp of Sadness.
- The reference to an imaginary "retroactive Horse Oscar" humorously emphasizes the impact of Artax's performance.
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Black Beauty from Black Beauty TV Series:
- Black Beauty, a black horse, is highlighted from the TV series "Black Beauty."
- The mention of the embedded theme song reflects the cultural resonance of the series in association with horse imagery.
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Thirty-Thirty from BraveStarr:
- Thirty-Thirty is a character from the animated series "BraveStarr," featuring a horse with anthropomorphic characteristics, carrying a shotgun and making horse-related puns.
- The '80s cultural reference positions "BraveStarr" as an iconic cartoon of that era.
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Shadowfax from Lord of the Rings:
- Shadowfax is a horse from "Lord of the Rings" known for his speed, intelligence, and loyalty to Gandalf.
- The mention of stopping Legolas and his heroic actions in battle, accompanied by Howard Shore's score, highlights the character's significance in the film.
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Maximus from Tangled:
- Maximus is a horse from the animated film "Tangled," portrayed as an intelligent and skilled character capable of fighting with a sword and displaying dog-like behavior.
- The assertion that Maximus is the epitome of an ideal horse emphasizes his multifaceted abilities and endearing qualities.
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The Dublin Horse Show Event Details:
- The article briefly describes the Dublin Horse Show, mentioning its diverse offerings, including show jumping competitions, equestrian entertainment, shopping, food, music, and daily entertainment.
- Tickets to the 2016 Dublin Horse Show are promoted, showcasing the commercial aspect of the event.
In conclusion, the article seamlessly blends entertainment and equestrian culture, showcasing horses as both fictional characters and real-life participants in prestigious events like the Dublin Horse Show. This fusion of art and reality underscores the enduring fascination and significance of horses in various facets of human experience.
