War Horse began as a children’s novel by Michael Morpurgo, and went on to become an award-winning stage play. It was only a matter of time before someone adapted this story of friendship, loyalty and sacrifice for the big screen. Given the themes of the story and its epic nature, it makes perfect sense that Steven Spielberg would be drawn to it. The result is an old fashioned (in the best sense of the word) motion picture which is destined to become a family classic that will endure for generations.

The story begins in Devon, where Ted (Peter Mullan) foolishly buys a thoroughbred at auction, an animal which will not help him plough his rocky fields. His son Albert (Jeremy Irvine) quickly forms a bond with the horse, and gently breaks it in. As the First World War approaches, the father sells the horse to the army and we follow the extraordinary creature on his journey through war-torn Europe, as the young and soon-to-be-enlisted son yearns for the day when he will be reunited with his beloved companion.

War Horse is epic filmmaking at its best: with wide vistas; tracking shots; incredible set pieces; heart-wrenching emotion; a John Williams score and a cast of supporting characters (Tom Hiddleston, Benedict Cumberbatch, David Thewlis, Eddie Marsan) that plays out like a who’s-who of British acting talent.