"Secretariat"

What a great movie! Never mind the Wall Street Journal's cynical reviewer, Joe Morgenstern, who complained tht it included too many "life lessons." Come on Joe, lighten up! It's Disney for heaven's sake! And it's about time something really worthwhile for family viewing showed up on the screeen. Often the term "family film" is like the kiss of death, but in this case it speaks of entertainment that people of all ages can revel in. Roger Ebert got it right giving highest marks (100!) to "Secretariat.' the story of the greatest race horse that ever lived. Wonderfully photographed (see those galloping hooves kicking up the dirt!), professionally acted (everyone in the marvelous cast was great: Diane Lane, outstanding in her best work ever; John Malkovich, always unique and marvelous, and you've got to love Margo Martindale, everyone needs a friend like "Miss Hamm") Even the kids in it portrayed interesting individuals. Whether you ride horses or not, bet on horses or not, love them or not- you're sure to be swept up in the excitement and suspense, yes, suspense! -- (even though we know the final outcome of Secretariat's noble career. It is reassuring that a quality film such as "Secretariat" is doing so well at the box office. FOUR STARS ---and 37 lengths ahead.. SP