Secretariat

Penny Chenery, a devoted mother and housewife, takes charge of Meadow Stables in Virginia when her ailing father can't. She steps into a sport she barely knows, facing skepticism from men who run racing. With stubborn resolve, she hires Lucien Laurin, a seasoned trainer who can translate tough word into action. The effort blends grit, strategy, and grit again as she steadies finances, makes tough calls, and learns the ropes of a high stakes industry. The story follows a determined proprietor who proves a new voice can reshape a venerable stable, guiding a team toward a bid for racing's top prizes. The tension comes from risk, ambition, and hope. Behind the scenes, tense negotiations and stubborn hopeful resolve keep momentum.

Directed by Randall Wallace, this 2010 drama draws on Penny Chenery's real life horse legacy. Based on Meadow Stables story, the film pairs Diane Lane with veteran trainer Lucien Laurin and hits theaters nationwide offering a brisk look at legend.

Worldwide box office totaled about 60.3 million on a 35 million budget, making Secretariat a solid midrange performer for a period drama. The film found steady audiences in households, sports fans, and viewers drawn to true life stories across continents.

Lane's portrayal of Penny Chenery earned notices for grounding a high profile story in everyday resolve. The film helped broaden awareness of Secretariat's legacy, delivering race setups and a portrait of a woman steering a traditional sport through modern times. The race sequences, practical horse care, and teamwork feel authentic.

Critics noted its solid performances and restrained drama. The film centers on perseverance, family, and navigating gender barriers. It treats sport as a test of character rather than spectacle, with Penny balancing duties at home and at the stable, showing how one person can redefine a sport through steady leadership.