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Phar Lap

Phar Lap, the legendary Australian racing horse, is as well-known today for his mysterious death as for his fabulous accomplishments in life. Beginning at the end, the film flashes back to the day that Phar Lap, despite his lack of pedigree, is purchased on impulse by trainer Harry Telford. Phar Lap loses his first races, but Telford's faith in the animal is unshakable. Suddenly the horse becomes a winner, thanks to the love and diligence of stableboy Tommy Woodcock. American-promoter Dave Davis arranges for Phar Lap to be entered in several top races, where his "long shot" status results in heavy losses for the professional gamblers. Just after winning an important race in Mexico, Phar Lap collapses and dies; though the film never comes out and says as much, it is assumed that the horse was "murdered" by the gambling interests.

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Cast & Crew See All

Tom Burlinson
Tommy Woodcock
Judy Morris
Bea Davis
Martin Vaughan
Harry Telford

Featured Video

Phar Lap
Phar Lap
0:55

0:55 Phar Lap

Awards

  • 1985 - Golden Reel Award - Best Sound Editing - Foreign Feature - winner
  • 1983 - AFI Award - Best Film - nominated
  • 1983 - AFI Award - Best Director - nominated
  • 1983 - AFI Award - Best Actor in a Lead Role - nominated

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