Based on Anna Sewell's novel. In rural England of the 1880's, widower Squire Wendon is rearing his young daughter Anne. Her father has forbidden her to be present when their mare, "Duchess," gives birth. Anne sneaks out to the stable, however, and is discovered by her father who forbids her ever to ride Duchess again. Despite this punishment, he gives Anne Duchess's colt because it is her birthday, and she names him "Black Beauty."
Cinematography
Lush rural England, sun-drenched stables.
Costume
Divine 1880s riding habits and petticoats.
Director
Max Nosseck
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This was one of five Black Beauty adaptations by 1946—studios kept returning to Sewell's novel like comfort food.
The film softens the book's harsh critique of horse cruelty, trading social reform for feel-good family drama.
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