National Velvet facts for kids

National Velvet is a classic 1944 American movie. It tells the exciting story of a young girl and her special horse. The film stars the famous actors Elizabeth Taylor and Mickey Rooney. It is based on a popular 1935 book by Enid Bagnold.

This movie is about following your dreams, no matter how big they seem. It shows how courage and friendship can help you achieve amazing things. National Velvet won two Academy Awards, which are very important movie prizes. In 2003, the United States Library of Congress chose National Velvet to be kept safe in the National Film Registry. This means it is considered a very important film for its culture, history, or beauty.

The Story of Velvet Brown

The movie is set in a small English village. It introduces us to Velvet Brown, a determined 12-year-old girl. Velvet loves horses more than anything. She dreams of owning a horse that can win big races.

One day, Velvet wins a beautiful but wild horse in a village raffle. She names him "The Pie." Velvet believes The Pie is special. She thinks he has the potential to be a champion racehorse.

A Special Friendship

Velvet's family runs a butcher shop. Her father, Mr. Brown, is kind but practical. Her mother, Mrs. Brown, was once a famous swimmer. She understands what it means to have big dreams.

Velvet also meets Mi Taylor, a young drifter. Mi has a past connection to horse racing. He becomes a friend and helper to Velvet. He sees the special bond between Velvet and The Pie. Mi also recognizes The Pie's incredible talent.

Training for the Big Race

Velvet and Mi decide to train The Pie for the biggest horse race in England. This race is called the Grand National. It is a very long and difficult steeplechase race. Only the best horses and jockeys can compete.

Training The Pie is a huge challenge. Velvet works hard every day. She learns a lot about horses and racing. Mi helps her with his knowledge and experience. Their journey is full of ups and downs.

The Grand National Race

The Grand National is a famous horse race. It is known for its tough jumps and long distance. It is usually raced by professional male jockeys. No girl has ever ridden in it.

Velvet and Mi face many problems trying to enter The Pie. They need money and a jockey. Velvet's mother helps them by giving them her old swimming prize money. This shows her support for Velvet's dream.

A Daring Plan

On the day of the race, their chosen jockey cannot ride. Velvet makes a brave and risky decision. She decides to ride The Pie herself. To do this, she disguises herself as a boy.

This part of the story is very exciting. Velvet, disguised as a boy, rides The Pie in the Grand National. She faces many challenges during the race. She has to be strong and skillful.

The Race of a Lifetime

The race is thrilling and intense. Velvet and The Pie show amazing teamwork. They overcome every obstacle. The crowd watches in amazement.

Velvet and The Pie cross the finish line first. They win the Grand National! It is an incredible victory. However, Velvet's disguise is soon discovered. This causes a big stir.

Why National Velvet is Important

National Velvet is more than just a horse racing movie. It teaches us about courage and believing in yourself. It shows that girls can achieve anything boys can.

Elizabeth Taylor was only 12 years old when she made this movie. Her performance as Velvet Brown was amazing. It helped make her a huge star. Mickey Rooney also gave a great performance as Mi Taylor.

Lasting Impact

The movie was very popular when it came out. It continues to inspire people today. It reminds us that dreams can come true with hard work and determination.

The film's beautiful story and strong messages have made it a classic. It is still loved by families and horse fans around the world. Its place in the National Film Registry shows its lasting importance.