In Walt Disney Pictures’ latest adventure movie, Hidalgo, a special relationship develops between a rider and his horse. The story unfolds with a colorful horse, once considered to be unworthy of competition against other breeds, which defies the odds and proves his worth to the world. In the process, he forever endears himself to his owner, who never doubted the horse’s spirit, loyalty or determination.

It’s a story based on the life of Frank Hopkins and his horse, Hidalgo. Likewise, it is an accurate representation of the bond established between actor Viggo Mortensen, who portrayed Hopkins, and his new sorrel overo Paint Horse stallion, RH Tecontender, who played Hidalgo. Similarly, it depicts Hidalgo screenplay writer John Fusco’s relationship with his new American Paint Horse gelding, Impressivelybetter, who also played the legendary horse in the movie. Mortensen and Fusco make no secret of the fact that they established strong connections with the Paint Horses during the Hidalgo film-making experience