From the legendary director Steven Spielberg and DreamWorks Pictures comes exclusively to Brooke USA Foundation (Brooke USA) the acclaimed movie War Horse. Available only Friday, June 24 through Sunday, June 26, the virtual showing of War Horse can be viewed on a designated, private access sub-channel of the Equus Film Festival streaming network. To secure your access while helping working horses, donkeys and mules living in vulnerable communities across the globe, visit: www.brookeusaevents.org.
War Horse is a 2011 war film based on Michael Morpurgo’s 1982 novel of the same name and its 2007 stage adaptation. The film’s ensemble cast includes Jeremy Irvine, Peter Mullan, Emily Watson, Niels Arestrup, David Thewlis, Tom Hiddleston and Benedict Cumberbatch. Set before and during World War I, it tells of the journey of Joey, a bay Irish Hunter horse raised by British teenager Albert (Irvine), as he is bought by the British Army, leading him to encounter numerous individuals and owners throughout Europe, all the while experiencing the tragedies of the war happening around him.
“The story of Brooke USA and our sister organization Brooke: Action for Working Horses & Donkeys are deeply intertwined with the plot of War Horse, as the fate of former WWI horses was one of abandonment and suffering,” explained Emily Dulin, CEO of Brooke USA. When Dorothy Brooke arrived in Egypt with her husband she was distraught by the images of these horses who were shipped from their homes across Europe and the United States to serve in the war. Dorothy felt a strong urge to seek out these horses and do whatever was needed to ease their suffering. Dorothy went on to find hundreds of poorly and worn-out animals desperately in need of help and established the Brooke Hospital for the Animals in 1934. “Each one of the horses Dorothy saved is another Joey, the bay in the movie,” Dulin added.
Having directed many films set during World War II, War Horse was Spielberg’s first film to tackle the events of WWI. Shot in England over 63 days, the production used 5,800 extras and 300 horses. The film was named one of the top ten best films of 2011 by the American Film Institute and the National Board Review and was nominated for six Academy Awards (including Best Picture), two Golden Globe Awards, and five British Academy of Film and Television Arts Awards.
The goal of this virtual viewing of War Horse is to exalt the many contributions working horses have made throughout history and bring attention to the 100 million working equines which today continue to serve millions of people (600 million) across the globe. Moreover, the film will help raise funds for Brooke USA during June when the organization celebrates the birthday of its founder Dorothy Brooke.
The movie’s trailer is available for preview at www.filmfestivalflix.com/festival/brooke-usa/. The movie will be marked by the presence of several corporate partners who together emphasize the importance of Brooke USA’s work. Partners (to date) supporting the virtual viewing include Equus Film Fest, Truist and the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). More sponsors are needed to make this virtual event a success. To view the sponsorship deck, visit: https://www.brookeusa.org/s/Films-For-A-Cause-War-Horse_V3.pdf.
Once again, to purchase tickets for your private viewing of War Horse, visit www.brookeusaevents.org. General admission is $35 and includes one device access code, VIP Admission includes one access code and home delivery of an exclusive Caroline’s Cakes (one of Oprah’s Favorite Things) for $165, and Premier VIP Admission includes one access code and home delivery of an exclusive Caroline’s Cakes, a bottle of Cugini Winery’s Bubbly Traditional Champagne and Mottra caviar for the ticket cost of $250.
“At Brooke USA, we suggest that viewers plan a party to enjoy the movie, share the treats provided and make an evening affair for family and friends,” noted Kendall Bierer, Brooke USA’s Donor Relations Officer. “During June, in recognition of Dorothy Brooke’s birthday, Brooke USA celebrates her life and legacy. We hope that many will join our War Horse virtual movie as we appreciate Dorothy’s contributions to the world of equine welfare.”
About Brooke USA Foundation (Brooke USA): The mission of Brooke USA is to significantly improve the health, welfare, and productivity of working horses, donkeys and mules and the people who depend on them for survival worldwide. We are committed to sustainable economic development by reducing poverty, increasing food security, ensuring access to water, providing a means to education, and raising basic standards of living through improved equine health and welfare. We accomplish this by raising funds and responsibly directing them to the areas of greatest need.
About Equus Film Festival: The Equus Film Festival is the world’s premier showcase for domestic and international feature films, documentaries, and shorts, in which the horse is put center stage. Hundreds of films have gained recognition, found international distribution, and reached global audiences via the festival.
For more information, contact:
Emily Dulin
305-505-6170
Emily.Dulin@BrookeUSA.org
Kendall Bierer
561-309-9873
Kendall.Bierer@BrookeUSA.org