Racetrack
dir. Frederick Wiseman · 1985
Life involves a complex interplay of care, preparation, and competition, revealing the dedication and passion that drive individuals in pursuit of their goals.
A jockey prepares for a race, his focus unwavering as the crowd buzzes with anticipation. The film immerses viewers in the daily lives of those who work behind the scenes at Belmont Race Track, revealing the intricate web of care, labor, and passion that fuels the world of horse racing. Watching it feels like stepping into a quiet observatory, where the rhythms of life unfold with a meditative pace, inviting reflection on the unseen labor that sustains such spectacles.
RACETRACK is about the Belmont Race Track, one of the world's leading race tracks for thoroughbred racing. The film highlights the training, maintaining and racing of thoroughbred horses. Everyday occurrences are shown: in the backstretch — the grooming, feeding, shoeing, and caring for horses and the preparation for races; at the practice track the various aspects of training, exercising, and timing the horses; at the paddock — the pre-race presentation of the horses; and in the grandstand — betting and watching the races. The film also has sequences showing the variety of work done by trainers, jockeys, jockey agents, grooms, hot walkers, stable hands, and veterinarians.
Talking points
- the ethics of animal sports
- the lives of unseen laborers
- socio-economic implications of betting
- the role of tradition in modern sports
