It was announced today a theatrical motion picture will be made about Mine That Bird, and his extraordinary journey and triumph at the 2009 Kentucky Derby. The director will be Jim Wilson, Academy Award Winning Producer of Dances With Wolves and many other films including, The Bodyguard, Wyatt Earp and Message in Bottle. Lead producer is Pieter Kroonenburg, who is also president of Kingsborough Pictures.
The film will be a success story for New Mexico’s film industry, with a commitment by the producers to utilize New Mexico crews and talent whenever possible and to shoot the majority of the picture within the state. Mine that Bird is owned by New Mexicans Mark Allen and Dr. Leonard Blach, and was trained on their ranches in Roswell, New Mexico. The owners are Members in the New Mexico LLC, formed to produce the film. Among those being considered for roles in the movie are Mine That Bird, himself, and three-time Kentucky Derby winner, jockey, Calvin Borel.
The film follows the humorous adventures of a small, crooked-footed horse and his cowboy owners and trainer, who take to the highway in an unlikely bid to win America’s premier horse race, The Kentucky Derby. Misfits in the regal world of Kentucky blue bloods, these charming rascals face multiple mishaps and obstacles along the way to the winner’s circle.
Pre-production will commence in February 2011.
Mine That Bird Producer, Price Hall said:
“His story reminds us to do what we love if we want to succeed. The Bird has clearly inspired people wherever he has run, and time and again he has been called ‘everyman’s horse’, setting a great example for the small guy who can win against all odds if he just sets his mind to it.”
Elizabeth Gaylynn Baker, writer/producer said:
“America loves an underdog”
The producing team is further complemented by New Mexicans Tony Mark (Executive Producer for Academy Award winning The Hurt Locker), Earl Robinson, Liz Servis and Nick Ward, as well as Los Angeles attorney, Rick Morse.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hv8x9x5A49s[/youtube]
