After Kings Row, it was a cinch that Ronald Reagan would be cast in Stallion Road - although you won't understand why until you watch the movie. And where was Ann Sheridan? Instead, Alexis Smith played the independent, slightly masculine female lead. It was originally slated for Lauren Bacall, and indeed, all three of those ladies could have handled the role.
Reagan plays a horse doctor, and he's obviously at home in his surroundings as he rides, treats, and cares for Alexis's horses. His friend, Zachary Scott, is a visiting author looking for a new idea (Do you think he'll write a book entitled Stallion Road?), and he's quickly smitten with Alexis. She barely pays attention to him, and she certainly doesn't lead him on; she insults his kissing talents and tells him her heart belongs to Reagan. Of course it does - he's going to be President one day! Just kidding. But he's very handsome and loves her animals, so it's no wonder she's taken with him. Zachary's actually a very good sport about it, and his character has a great calm that balances well with the tense moments of the story. This was based off a sweeping novel, after all, so you can expect a lot of heavy drama.
I'm a stickler for not watching movies that show violence against animals, so I was a bit worried about this one. It's not uncommon for a rider to have to shoot her beloved horse after an accident, just to tug on the audiences' heartstrings. But, even though there are tragedies that befall the animals, the humans never harm them, and the audience doesn't have to see them suffering. There's a lot of good to this film, including the adorable child actress Patti Brady. Alexis has a solid love triangle on her hands, since they both have their good points. I'm looking forward to reading the book!
