I have to say I was a little disappointed. Top notch production all the way around, vintage Spielberg for sure. My disappointment is how the story itself is handled. It didn't leave any time for, nor seem to present a need for, the audience to become emotionally involved with any of the characters. Not even Joey (the horse).

To me, all the scenes with Joey were the best parts of the movie. The people all seemed one-dimensional. The story spans four years, but it feels like it could have been six months. At times, some very important parts of the story were glossed over in a matter of a minute or so.

I wanted more time with some of the people and with Joey, but it jumped through the years and the different people in Joey's life very quickly. I felt zero connection to any character other than Joey. I don't really know how to explain it, but I felt like the story was poorly presented. I expected much more.

However; With the the horse's part of the story and the cinematography both being handled so expertly - I give it 3 out of 5 stars.