The Saddle Club Parent Guide

The Saddle Club came out of the gate as a series of books for young girls, penned by Bonnie Bryant. Then it galloped into the television arena. Now the saga of three equine-loving 12-year-olds is making the direct-to-home video/DVD jump.

Timid Lisa (Lara Jean Marshall), tomboy Stevie (Sophie Bennett), and born-natural Carole (Keenan Macwilliam) spend most of their time at Pine Hollow, a stable and riding academy. Here the girls learn plenty of horse sense from their instructor Max (Brett Tucker) and proper grooming care from the crush-inspiring stable-hand Red (Nathan Phillips). They also brush shoulders with the wealthy and snobby Veronica (Heli Simpson) and her sidekick Kristi (Kia Luby).

This premiere movie features three story lines so distinct form each other that the film feels like watching back-to-back TV episodes. The first follows Carole and her desire to be a veterinarian like her late mother. Initially excited about participating in a work experience program shadowing Dr. Judy Baker (Maggie King), the young girl finds her enthusiasm waning as she faces job realities and unresolved feelings of loss for her parent. Next, the challenge to prove superior riding skills results in a tragedy that leaves the chums grappling with guilt and forgiveness. The final plot pits the desire to peruse friends and fun against commitment to responsibilities.

About author

Donna Gustafson

Donna Gustafson has been involved with her husband Rod's work since the beginning. Handling many of the behind-the-scenes tasks, she also creates preview pages for up-coming movies, acts as managing editor and occasionally writes reviews.