Everybody's a critic - 'Hidalgo'

Two stars (out of four)

Billed as a western/action/ adventure film, "Hidalgo" attempts to take the true story of Frank T. Hopkins' participation in the 3,000-mile race across the Arabian desert (known as the Ocean of Fire) and dramatize it into a 135-minute saga. Albeit a valid one, the premise of the film depicting Frank T. Hopkins as one of the greatest riders in the West unfortunately falls short in captivating the audience until the last 20 minutes or so of the film. Even with its gun fights, sword slashing and so-called special effects, the movie seems more like a combination of "The Mummy," "Indiana Jones," and "The Wild Wild West" all rolled into one.

Perhaps the greatest performance of the film was by Frank's horse itself (Hidalgo). With carefully orchestrated filming, the horse portrayed a larger-than-life character that became even more endearing as the movie progressed. Although Viggo Mortensen (Hopkins) is likable in his role, he is outshined by the lovable horse for which the movie is aptly named.

- Lolita Hayes, floral designer

Three stars (out of four)

This adventurous tale of man and horse vs. the elements stars "Lord of the Rings" hero Viggo Mortensen. Mortensen plays cowboy Frank T. Hopkins, a dispatch rider with a strong love for his mustang, Hidalgo. When Hopkins is asked to join a 3,000 mile race across the Arabian desert, he and his horse embark on a journey of pride and self-discovery that seems almost impossible to overcome.

While this film is not your average Black Beauty-heartwarming film, it might just be compared to it. Even though somewhat predictable, the plot was action-packed and kept me tuned in.

There were many scenes of mild violence, but no harsh language. Mortensen did a wonderful job portraying Hopkins, and I look forward to seeing him in upcoming performances.

- Leslie Shain, student



Three and a half stars (out of four)

"Hidalgo" is an inspiring and beautiful story about friendship, perseverance and beauty based on the true story of Frank Hopkins. Hopkins (Viggo Mortensen), an American long-distance horse racer and dispatcher, is challenged to compete in the "Ocean of Fire" race to prove his horse Hidalgo is the fastest in the world.

Frank and Hidalgo find themselves in a strange place, the Arabian Desert, competing against the purest and finest horses in the world.

The film is a little long but worth the time. Mortensen has shown himself to be a fine warrior character actor and he brings the same strength to this film he brought the "Lord of the Rings" series.

The scenery is beautiful and the story line flows well. The friendship between Frank and Hidalgo shows the mutual respect of animal and man and the distance each will go for the other. "Hidalgo" will inspire and lift the spirit.

- Walt Paquin, professor