Gallant Bess (1946)

In the heart of MGM's first Cinecolor feature, a horse named Bess takes on a dual role, becoming the heart and soul of a remarkable tale. The saga, written by Jeanne Bartlett, is inspired by an episode recounted by Lt. Marvin Park, USNR and is set against an all-male backdrop, with the exception of the captivating Bess. We begin with a young, orphaned lad named Tex, who inherits more than just a thoroughbred mare from his father; he also receives a deep-rooted ambition to establish a stock farm. Tragedy strikes early when Tex, newly inducted into the Navy Seabees, is unable to rush to his beloved Bess's side as she succumbs to pneumonia. The loss leaves him with a bitter resentment, an antagonistic fire that fuels his brave spirit. Later, amid the chaos of World War II, Tex finds himself stationed on a remote island in the Pacific under relentless Japanese bombardment. There, he stumbles upon a stricken horse in the heart of the jungle. With a heart still aching from the loss of Bess, he nurses the horse back to health. The mare becomes a beloved mascot of the CB company, a symbol of hope, courage, and resilience. In a twist of fate, the horse returns the favor, saving Tex's life and restoring his spirit. The horse, mirroring the spirit of the lost Bess, performs amazing tricks and services that inspire the brave men risking their lives on the war-ridden island. MGM's film, loosely based on a true story, features the real-life Gallant Bess, capturing the spirit of an undying bond between man and horse, even in the face of the greatest adversities.

Gallant Bess is a drama movie featuring Marshall Thompson.

Gallant Bess is currently streaming on DIRECTV.