Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story.

Name: Dreamer: Inspired by a True Story
Genre: Drama, Family, Sport
Released: 2005-10-16
Duration: 100 min
Cast: Kurt Russell, Dakota Fanning, Kris Kristofferson, Elisabeth Shue, David Morse

One injured horse. A family willing to try.

A horse trainer loses his job after refusing to give up on an injured racehorse. His daughter Cale helps care for the mare, and their attempt to get her racing again draws a divided family back together.

64%Tomatometer115 critics · Rotten Tomatoes

Checked Oct 20, 2026. About these scores

Why it’s a little special

Dakota Fanning and Kurt Russell anchor a patient horse story about trust, practical effort and second chances.

BEFORE YOU PRESS PLAY

Know the story.
Know your little people.

Parental guidance suggested

US film rating

A horse suffers a serious leg injury, and euthanasia is discussed. Includes family arguments, financial strain, mild language and racing peril.

Our notes are a starting point, not an age recommendation. G and PG films can still include intense moments. You know your family best.

BEHIND THE SCENES

The little details.

Directed by: John Gatins
Starring: Kurt Russell, Dakota Fanning, Kris Kristofferson, Elisabeth Shue, David Morse, Freddy Rodríguez, Luis Guzmán, Oded Fehr, Ken Howard, Rosemary Garris, Rhoda Griffis, Frank Hoyt Taylor
Written by: John Gatins
Produced by: Michael Tollin, Brian Robbins, Hunt Lowry
Release date: October 16, 2005
Runtime: 100 minutes
Genre: Drama, Family, Sport
Studio: Dreamworks
Language: English