The Electric Horseman

THE ELECTRIC HORSEMAN – A breezy drama where a washed‑up rodeo star (Robert Redford) rescues a mistreated thoroughbred and races it toward freedom, with a tenacious reporter (Jane Fonda) hot on his trail. Perfect programme highlights for UK television fans seeking classic entertainment, this movie delivers romance, action and stunning scenery in a quick‑at‑a‑glance guide for British TV viewers on RTE One programming.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW THE ELECTRIC HORSEMAN is a 1979 American drama film that has become a beloved classic in the canon of cinematic horse‑stories. Starring Robert Redford as former rodeo champion Tom Smith and Jane Fonda as tenacious journalist Kay Graham, the movie follows a washed‑up rodeo star who rescues a mistreated thoroughbred and embarks on a daring cross‑country ride to a remote grazing land, all while a determined reporter pursues him for the story of a lifetime. This full‑length movie will be featured on British TV as part of a special showcase of iconic Hollywood dramas, offering UK viewers a chance to experience a timeless tale of freedom, integrity and love of the open road. WHAT TO EXPECT Viewers can anticipate a richly layered narrative that blends high‑octane adventure with quiet, reflective moments set against the sweeping American West. The film balances thrilling chase sequences with tender scenes of Tom’s bond with the horse, highlighting themes of redemption, corporate greed and the press’s role in shaping public perception. Cinematographer Conrad L. Hall captures the landscape with a palette of golden light and stark horizons, while the score by Dave Grusin underlines the emotional stakes without ever overwhelming the natural sounds of hooves and wind. Although it is a movie rather than an episode of a series, the pacing feels like a well‑crafted drama series, making it an engaging entry in any British TV entertainment lineup. KEY FEATURES - STAR POWER: Robert Redford and Jane Fonda deliver iconic performances that still resonate with audiences today. - DIRECTORIAL VISION: Directed by Sydney Pollack, the film benefits from his trademark blend of character‑driven storytelling and visual elegance. - PRODUCTION VALUES: Shot on location across the United States, the authentic settings and meticulous set design lend a documentary‑like realism to the drama. - CULTURAL IMPACT: The movie sparked discussions about animal welfare and media ethics that remain relevant in contemporary UK discourse, making it a valuable addition to any in‑depth review of classic cinema. WHY WATCH For discerning UK television viewers who appreciate quality programming, THE ELECTRIC HORSEMAN offers more than just entertainment; it provides a thoughtful exploration of personal integrity versus commercial exploitation, a topic that resonates strongly with British audiences attuned to debates about corporate responsibility. The film’s blend of action, romance and social commentary makes it a perfect fit for a comprehensive guide to classic drama on British TV. Its timeless appeal, combined with the star‑studded cast and stunning cinematography, ensures that the programme will captivate both long‑time fans of classic cinema and newcomers seeking a full‑detail, in‑depth review of a true movie masterpiece. RTE One PROGRAMMING CONTEXT The upcoming broadcast on RTE One positions THE ELECTRIC HORSEMAN within the channel’s celebrated tradition of airing high‑quality drama and classic film slots, often featured alongside documentaries and series that explore similar themes of freedom and moral choice. By slotting the movie into a prime‑time entertainment block, RTE One provides UK viewers with a convenient opportunity to enjoy this iconic film as part of their regular television guide. This placement reinforces the channel’s commitment to offering a diverse programme mix that includes both contemporary series and timeless movies, ensuring that the audience receives a well‑rounded viewing experience.