Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken: The Inspiring Story of Sonora Webster

The 1991 film 'Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken' tells the remarkable true story of Sonora Webster, a young orphan from rural Georgia who defied all odds to become a featured attraction at Atlantic City's Steel Pier. With her determination and love for horses, she rose from stable hand to performer, diving from a 40-foot-high tower into a tank while astride a horse.

Directed by Steve Miner, the film eschews sensationalism, opting instead for a straightforward approach that allows Sonora's story to shine through. The screenplay, written by Matt Williams and Oley Sassone, is crisp and simple, avoiding sentimentality as it tells the tale of this remarkable young woman.

One of the most astonishing aspects of Sonora's story is her ability to perform despite being blind for much of her career. An accident left her with detached retinas in both eyes, but she persevered, relying on her other senses to navigate the world and execute her daring dives.

The film's nostalgic haze is undeniable, with many scenes bathed in a soft golden light that evokes the magic of the past. But it's not just the setting that makes this movie special – it's the people behind the story. Sonora's tale is one of grit, determination, and the unbreakable bond between humans and horses.

For years, the image of the diving horse and girl became an emblem of Atlantic City, symbolizing the power of courage and perseverance in the face of adversity. 'Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken' is a testament to the human spirit, reminding us that even in the darkest times, there is always hope and always something to be achieved.

In this G-rated family picture, the past may be more magical than the present, but it's Sonora's story that truly shines through – a reminder that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

Wild hearts cant be broken 1991