National Velvet 1945
"Simple story of a boy... a girl... and a horse! Set to the thunder of the Grand National Steeplechase!"
In the pastoral charm of 1930s England, a spirited young girl named Velvet Brown and a wandering opportunist named Mi Taylor cross paths, igniting a journey of dreams and determination.
Director: Clarence Brown
Cast
Mickey Rooney
Michael 'Mi' Taylor
Donald Crisp
Mr. Herbert Brown
Elizabeth Taylor
Velvet Brown
Anne Revere
Mrs. Araminty Brown
Angela Lansbury
Edwina Brown
Jackie 'Butch' Jenkins
Donald Brown
Juanita Quigley
Malvolia 'Mally' Brown
Reginald Owen
Farmer Ede
Norma Varden
Miss Sims
Terry Kilburn
Theodore 'Ted'
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Velvet (1945) about?
National Velvet follows a spirited young girl named Velvet Brown who wins a horse in a town lottery and, with the help of a roguish but kind wanderer named Mi Taylor, trains it for the prestigious Grand National Steeplechase. Their journey becomes a story of ambition, trust, and the unbreakable bond between a girl and her horse.
Who directed National Velvet?
Clarence Brown directed National Velvet, helming this classic family drama with a keen eye for emotional depth and heartfelt storytelling.
Who stars in National Velvet?
The film stars Mickey Rooney, Donald Crisp, Elizabeth Taylor, Anne Revere, Angela Lansbury, and Jackie 'Butch' Jenkins in key roles.
Is National Velvet (1945) worth watching?
With its enduring themes of perseverance and family, National Velvet remains a touching and visually rich family drama. While it may lack the fast pace of modern films, its heartfelt narrative and standout performances—especially from a young Elizabeth Taylor—make it a rewarding watch for fans of classic stories.
How long is National Velvet?
National Velvet has a runtime of 123 minutes, offering a full and immersive cinematic experience.
🎥 Trailer
About National Velvet (1945) — A timeless tale of dreams, horses, and heart
In the pastoral charm of 1930s England, a spirited young girl named Velvet Brown and a wandering opportunist named Mi Taylor cross paths, igniting a journey of dreams and determination. Directed by Clarence Brown, this classic 1945 family drama weaves the tale of Velvet's love for horses and her unlikely partnership with Mi, who recognizes the potential in a rough but brilliant steed named Pie. With the Grand National Steeplechase looming as their ultimate challenge, the duo faces obstacles that test their courage, trust, and resilience. The film captures the innocence of ambition, the bond between unlikely allies, and the timeless allure of following one's heart against the odds.
National Velvet (1945) shines with heartfelt performances, particularly from a young Elizabeth Taylor, whose portrayal of Velvet captures both vulnerability and fierce determination. The story explores themes of family, perseverance, and the magic of believing in the impossible, all set against the backdrop of a society captivated by horse racing. Brown's direction infuses the film with warmth and authenticity, making every triumph and setback feel deeply personal and emotionally resonant.
