The Man from Snowy River Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

An Aussie cowboy does horse things, romances the boss’s daughter, and Kirk Douglas argues with himself, all while beautiful mountains provide a stunning backdrop for people running around.

🍿 The Man from Snowy River: Detailed Plot Synopsis

A Mountain Man’s Loss

In the 1880s Australian Alps, Jim Craig and his father Henry live a simple life raising horses. They dream of capturing a wild brumby herd to improve their stock. Tragedy strikes when Henry is killed in an accident while trying to trap the brumbies, leaving Jim orphaned and facing an uncertain future.

Earning His Place

To prove he is worthy of inheriting his father’s land, Jim must leave the mountains and earn his keep in the lowlands. He finds work at a cattle station owned by Harrison, a wealthy and stern rancher. Jim faces prejudice and challenges as he tries to prove his worth to Harrison and the other ranch hands.

Romance and Rivalry

Jim develops a connection with Jessica, Harrison’s spirited daughter, who shares his love for horses. Their budding romance is complicated by Harrison’s disapproval and a long-standing feud between Harrison and his estranged brother, Spur, a one-legged gold prospector who befriends Jim. The tension escalates when Harrison’s prized colt is set loose, and Jim is wrongly blamed.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Jim Craig (Tom Burlinson): A determined young mountain man who must earn his right to inherit his father’s farm after his death.
• Harrison (Kirk Douglas): A wealthy cattle rancher and Jessica’s father, estranged from his brother Spur due to a past rivalry.
• Spur (Kirk Douglas): A one-legged gold prospector and Harrison’s estranged brother, who offers guidance and support to Jim.
• Jessica Harrison (Sigrid Thornton): Harrison’s spirited daughter who develops a forbidden romance with Jim Craig.
• Clancy (Jack Thompson): A legendary horseman and friend to both Jim and Spur, who helps with the wild horse roundup.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Jim Craig: “There are a dozen good brood mares in that mob. I’ll be back for them… and for whatever else is mine.” – Jim says this with determination at the end, indicating his intention to return to the mountains and pursue a relationship with Jessica.
• Spur: “You’ve got spirit, Jim Craig. More than I ever had.” – Spur acknowledges Jim’s determination and contrasts it with his own past choices.
• Clancy: “They say hard riding’s in my blood.” – Clancy states this reflecting his renowned skill and passion for riding.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $3.5M
• Domestic Gross: $20.7M
• Worldwide Gross: $20.7M

💥 The Man from Snowy River Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, so I’ve loved ‘The Man from Snowy River’ since I was a kid. The whole thing just gets me, from the stunning scenery to the epic horse chase. I especially loved how Jim’s determination to prove himself really shone through. The bit where he rides down that crazy steep hill? Still gives me goosebumps every time. Plus, that music – just epic!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Westerns and adventure films”
  • “Horse enthusiasts”
  • “Viewers who appreciate beautiful scenery”
  • “Families looking for a wholesome movie”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Brief mild language”
  • “Some scenes of peril involving horses”
  • “Death of a parent”

Professional Reviews

• Collider.com: “Kirk Douglas’s dynamite performance as two brothers provides ample reason to watch this gritty western. This isn’t just any dusty trail ride but a redefined outback adventure that showcases the raw beauty and untamed spirit of Australia, making it a must-see for any fan of the genre.
• ScreenRant: “Stuntmen praise the movie’s realistic and breathtaking horse riding scenes, emphasizing how it captures the essence of horsemanship. This film offers a unique experience with its impressive stunts and genuine feel.

Audience Reactions

Viewers adore the thrilling horse riding scenes and breathtaking cinematography.: Most viewers agree it’s a heartwarming and adventurous tale perfect for family viewing, with a timeless quality that still resonates today.

Overall Consensus: A beloved classic for its stunning visuals, exciting action, and heartwarming story, despite some dated elements.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Tom Burlinson had limited horse riding experience before being cast as Jim Craig. He underwent intensive training to perform the film’s demanding riding sequences.”
• “The film is based on the poem ‘The Man from Snowy River’ by Australian bush poet A. B. ‘Banjo’ Paterson. Paterson himself appears as a minor character in the movie.”
• “Kirk Douglas plays dual roles as brothers Harrison and Spur, a casting choice that added complexity to the story and allowed Douglas to showcase his acting range.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Man from Snowy River?

The Man from Snowy River is available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for cable availability. Physical copies (DVDs and Blu-rays) are also widely available for purchase online and in stores.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Man from Snowy River, you might like these similar films:

• Quigley Down Under (1990): Features an American cowboy in the Australian outback, dealing with cultural differences and adventure.
• The Black Stallion (1979): A visually stunning film centered on the bond between a boy and a magnificent horse.
• Australia (2008): An epic romance set in the Australian outback during World War II, featuring sweeping landscapes and adventure.
• Lonesome Dove (1989): Classic Western miniseries about a cattle drive, showcasing the spirit and challenges of the American frontier.

🛒 The Man from Snowy River Related Products

• The Man from Snowy River: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Experience the evocative score by Bruce Rowland, capturing the spirit and adventure of the Australian high country. Relive the magic of the film through its powerful and emotional themes.
• Akubra Snowy River Hat: Embrace the iconic style of Jim Craig with the Akubra Snowy River Hat. This high-quality hat, made from premium fur felt, is a symbol of the Australian outback and a must-have for fans of the film.
• Australian Stock Whip: Feel the power of the Australian outback with a meticulously handcrafted stock whip, inspired by the very ones used in the movie. A quality whip is both a decorative item and functional tool.
• The Man from Snowy River Movie Poster: Adorn your walls with the timeless beauty of ‘The Man from Snowy River’ movie poster. Featuring iconic imagery from the film, this poster captures the essence of adventure and romance.

🎧 Soundtrack

The Man from Snowy River features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Main Title” – performed by Bruce Rowland
• “Jessica’s Theme” – performed by Bruce Rowland
• “Bagatelle No. 25 in A minor (Für Elise)” – performed by Ludwig van Beethoven

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Jack Thompson reading Clancy of the Overflow from The Man from Snowy River

Did you know the movie was based on a famous poem? Check out Jack Thompson, who played Clancy, reciting the original ‘Clancy of the Overflow’ – it’s amazing to see the source material brought to life!

Embrace the Experience – a night at The Man From Snowy River in Concert

Ever wondered what it’s like to experience ‘The Man From Snowy River’ soundtrack live? This short clip gives you a taste of the concert experience – seriously gives you chills!

✨ Rate