

Every year the Chincoteague fire department rounds up the wild ponies of Assateague Island and holds an auction to thin out the herd. The young children set out to raise enough money in hopes that the Phantom will be caught in this years round up. They soon realize they will get more than they bargained for when the Phantom has a surprise for everyone: a foal named Misty.
Practical Effects
Real Chincoteague ponies filmed on location—no CGI, just actual horse magic.
Writing
Marguerite Henry's beloved novel adapted with surprising restraint.
Director
James B. Clark
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The real Misty was purchased by author Marguerite Henry herself in 1946 for $150, then lived in her Michigan home.
The annual Pony Swim still happens every July—it's one of America's oldest continuous livestock events, predating this film by decades.