OK, as a professional who has been riding and competing for over 40 yrs, teaching riders for 30+yrs, I'm not going to grade this as an equestrian. Because it's a film, and a cute, family film.
I did find it a bit slow in parts, and we don't really have a strong identity with Emma--perhaps because she's not sure of who she is either.
For those looking for a 'horsey' movie, I wouldn't even say this is a film with a lot of riding shown. It has horses, but it's not really like Sylvester or International Velvet--with a character looking to compete. This is more of a 'save the day' type film. And, while it may look happy, the ending is rather sad I find (good sad, but still rather sad)
The focus of this is really the rescue organization, and I'm rather surprised at how well funded this organization is! I've rehabbed many rescues, and never had the kind of gear they do ;) But, it doesn't matter: They have saved many horses and donkeys and it's wonderful to see those animals in the film. The one playing Chance is gorgeous---obviously a retired hunter.
Just a side note: We never use the term 'dirty stopper'. Quitter or stopper describes a horse that quits a fence: I've never in my 40 yrs rode a horse that wanted to intentionally throw the rider--and my forte was riding stoppers. I've done my days of flying into fences, and in all instances, they were rider error.
Horses quit at a fence when they are in pain, scared or unsure of themselves. The reality is, not all horses like to jump, or have a certain height they are comfortable with. When they are pushed past their comfort, and even worse, have an accident, it can scare them forever. The key is knowing where to put those horses and not push them past their ability. Also, visual issues are another thing to consider if a horse stops. I've ridden many a blind horse to victory in the hunters/jumpers and in Eventing---a horse only needs 1 good eye, and a a lot of love and confidence. :)
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