Orlov Trotters move as if soaring above the ground: they can maintain a fast, powerful trot over long distances without breaking into a gallop. Tall, with broad chests and swan-like necks, they combine strength with elegance. The variety was developed under the direction of Count Orlov, who bred them for pulling carriages on long journeys along Russia’s roads. In 1776, the Count brought an Arabian stallion named Smetanka to Russia. His descendants, crossed with European horses, became the foundation of this celebrated breed.
Orlov Trotters are still bred today at the Khrenovskoy Stud Farm in the Voronezh Region. Aspiring equestrians come here from across Russia to learn how to prepare horses for competition, care for them and understand their character.
Each of the film’s protagonists has a special horse of their own. For coach Ekaterina Shibanova, it is Bonjour, whom she rescued from a butcher. For young Makar, it is Cupid, his therapy horse in riding lessons. And for trick rider Yulia, it is Zhivopisny, a veteran of Red Square performances. How do you earn the trust of an animal that is both powerful and easily frightened? And what changes once it begins to trust you?
