Gypsy Vanner Horse

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Filmmakers Jackie and Mark Barrett take viewers on a journey through the British Isles and across America in discovery of a magical new breed of horse, the Gypsy Vanner. It’s a story steeped in the legend, romance, and mystery of the Gypsies and Traveling People of the British Isles.

Generations of Gypsies have dedicated their lives to developing this unique horse type, and now horse lovers the world over are enthusiastic to participate.

Details

LENGTH:  1 x 43 Minutes
FORMAT: Special
CAMERA: XDCAM EX and HDV
INTERNATIONAL TRACK: Yes
TEXTLESS: Yes
CLOSED CAPTIONS: No
PRODUCTION YEAR: 2008,  2009
RELEASE YEAR: 2010
PRODUCER: Jackie Barrett
DIRECTOR: Mark Barrett
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: United States
RIGHTS TERRITORY: Worldwide

Beautifully filmed in HD, this captivating Gypsy Vanner Horse documentary introduces a magical type of horse bred by a select group by Gypsies in the British Isles. A chance discovery during a business trip started ones mans obsession with introducing this horse to the U.S. and the world.

In the film, you’ll meet Gypsy historian, artisan, and folklorist Peter Ingram.  Around his home campfire he charms us with tales of  his life in a living wagon and the changing lifestyles of Travelers today. Further on we visit Gypsy campsites and a family driving their caravan of historic living wagons on an annual pilgrimage to the Appleby Horse Fair.  Some travel weeks to reach this destination, using the same roads as speeding semis and autos.  It can be an arduous journey and not one for the feint of heart.

The Appleby Horse Fair was established in 1685 for the purpose of horse trading and Gypsies from throughout the British Isles are arriving for the 323^rd consecutive year of this lively cultural gathering.  As colorful wagons and caravans stream into Appleby town center, making their way to the historic fairgrounds, all eyes turn to the parade.    Children prepare horses with a traditional bath in the River Eden, making a well attended spectator sport of it.  On the overly crowded flash road pedestrians need to be wary.  Drivers, in hopes of making an impression, and a sale, scream and shout ahead warnings as they boldly race their horses up and down the narrow roadway.

Traveling throughout America we meet various other new owners, breeders, and lovers of the Gypsy Vanner Horse.  Some are new to horses and some have much experience with other breeds.  All tell stories of a compelling draw to this enchanting horse.

Dennis Thompson is the original importer of these horses and established the type as a distinct breed, The Gypsy Vanner Horse.  We hear his touching story of discovery and why this horse has become his life’s passion as well as his business.

Bob & Bev Smith own and run one the most famous Ferrari restoration shops in the world and have hopes of making the Vanners just as famous.  Alan Yates is a Microsoft executive sharing his wife’s newly sparked passion for horses.

Various professional trainers, clinicians and horsemen share what they find so pleasurable and endearing about these horses.

Awards

Finalist, Best Documentary 2009 CENFLO (Central Florida Film Festival)

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