Paige and her father, Jim (Matt McCoy) are quite close after the death of Paige's mother. Although they can not afford a horse, Jim sees that Paige gets to ride and compete in the competitions she loves. One day, Paige falls from her horse at a show and is paralysed from the waist down. More important, she is psychologically so affected that she can not speak or take care of herself. Enter Susan (Mel Harris). She is a no-nonsense therapist who is hired to bring Paige back, maybe even to the point of her being able to walk once more. But, Susan is a tough cookie who Jim describes as a "Ma Barker without the gun." Can Jim let Susan run the show to Paige's recovery? And, will moving Paige to a ranch with horses and animals help her? This is a good movie with outstanding messages. Certainly, horse lovers will embrace the movie as Wind Dancer, the horse, is a beautiful creature with fire and spirit. But, more importantly, this is a good look at the old adage of never give up. Paige is heart broken over her injuries, to the point of retreating from life, until Susan makes her look at things in a different way, with tough love. All of the actors here give fine performances and the ranch setting is also quite welcome to those who will never have the chance to visit one. In short, this is a good family film that has enough action and important messages to please both parents and children. Locating it at the video store or library will translate into an evening of most diverting fare for your loved ones.
