The Horse of Pride

Synopsis

The Horse of Pride (Le Cheval d'orgueil) is a 1980 French drama film starring Jacques Dufilho, adapted from Pierre-Jakez Hélias's autobiographical novel. Set in rural Brittany, the film paints a vivid portrait of life in a tight-knit, traditional community during the early 20th century. It explores themes of family, cultural identity, and the resilience of the human spirit amid hardship. With authentic period detail and evocative storytelling, the movie captures both the beauty and the struggles of Breton rural life, portraying the bonds of kinship and pride that define its characters.

Cast

• 

  Jacques Dufilho

  Alain, le grand-père

• 

  Bernadette Le Saché

  Anne-Marie, la mère

• 

  François Cluzet

  Pierre-Alain, le père

• Ronan Hubert

  Pierre-Jacques à 7 ans

• Armel Hubert

  Pierre-Jacques à 11 ans

• 

  Pierre Le Rumeur

  Le conteur

Reviews

Critically, The Horse of Pride has received a mixed but generally appreciative response, especially for its cultural authenticity and heartfelt narrative. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 6.2/10, reflecting a moderate reception from audiences. Reviewers have lauded Jacques Dufilho's poignant performance, noting it brings genuine warmth and depth to the film. Cinema-focused reviews often highlight the film's evocative cinematography and faithful adaptation of Pierre-Jakez Hélias's beloved novel. Critics from French cinema circles praise its unsentimental yet affectionate portrayal of Breton heritage, calling it "a rich tapestry of regional tradition and familial bonds." However, some viewers find the pacing slow and the storyline somewhat meandering, which may limit its appeal to a niche audience interested in cultural dramas. On platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic, detailed aggregate scores are limited, reflecting its status as a more regionally appreciated classic rather than an international blockbuster. Overall, The Horse of Pride is regarded as a culturally significant film with a sincere emotional core, best appreciated by enthusiasts of historical and regional French cinema.

See also

Ex Machina

Blue Beetle

Sinners

Godzilla Minus One