The Colt

I loved this movie! I saw it when it first aired on Hallmark Channel back in July earlier this summer. I loved it so much that I went out and purchased the DVD.

The Colt is about a young union soldier who just lost his brother in a fight and shortly afterwords his mare gives birth to a colt. The men in the 1st Michigan infantry see luck and hope in the little colt.

Although some won't admit most of the men fall in love with the colt. If you saw and liked Glory and Gods and Generals then I think you'll love The Colt! You can now buy it on DVD and VHS and also it was on yesterday on Hallmark!

It was Ok but in my opinion nothing to brag about. James Welch Henderson, Arkansas 2/5/2021

THE COLT presented in a straightforward manner the tragedies of war from the individual soldier's point of view, on both sides. Important message for children to understand is that there are "good guys", decent human beings, on both sides. (This reminded me of some of Tolstoi's scenes in WAR and PEACE where one sees other individual soldiers struggling with the horrors of war).

The interplay between this wonderful little animal and the soldiers was another effective way to teach children about caring for something more vulnerable and innocent than ourselves.

I found the cinematography very beautiful at times and would enjoy sharing this film with many other friends and family, preferably with commercials left to the end or presented at the beginning.

The title is deceiving, this movie is much more than a tale about horses. Not being one for sappy animal movies, I was a bit skeptical at first. However, I was curious to see Merriman's performance after watching him years ago on the television series THE PRETENDER so I tuned in. With the Civil War as a backdrop, the story of the colt and men engaged in regiments was very moving. I laughed, cried, and even sat on the edge of my seat at times. It made me analyze history and human behavior. This story explored emotion and compassion that are often neglected in the history books. Suddenly, the Civil War becomes more complex and unnerving- leaving the viewer an opportunity to see humans at their best and worst. Merriman was superb and connected you to his plight as a young Union soldier far from home, trying hard to protect the innocent colt. If you enjoy historical drama, action, and social commentary you will enjoy this film.

I was leery of the title, as it sounded somewhat sentimental, yet our local librarian recommended my selection. Good call. This movie, unlike some Civil War movies, offers a real look at the humanity behind the soldier. What is mesmerizing is how the birth of a colt to an army mare changed the persona of the unit. The colt has all sorts of symbolism: new life among death; hope; redemption; promise. I hope to find a copy of the short story the film is based on and compare it to this film. One of the best scenes is when Jim, the main character, is sharing a meal with a farm family and as he describes his home state, he breaks down in tears from homesickness and despair. A touching and revealing film. A different look at the Civil War. While the ending is a horrible surprise, it is fitting for the irony portrayed throughout the film.