Home in Indiana

Home in Indiana is a 1944 film directed by Henry Hathaway. The film, that stars Walter Brennan, Lon McCallister, Jeanne Crain, June Haver and Charlotte Greenwood, is based on the story The Phantom Filly by George Agnew Chamberlain and was shot in Technicolor. The film was remade in 1957 as April Love.

Having just been sent away to live with his uncle and aunt in Indiana, teenager Sparke Thornton Lon McCallister has a penchant for trouble. At first, he is not satisfied with the arrangement, and continues to express his rebellious behavior. Already on his first day, he plans on running away, but crossing a harness racing track convinces him to stay in Indiana. The owner, Godaw Boole Charles Dingle welcomes Sparke, and introduces him to Char Bruce Jeanne Crain, a tomboyish girl who loves to race horses. Through a colored servant George Reed informs him that his uncle Thunder Bolt Walter Brennan was once part of harness horse racing as a respected sulky driver.Returning home, Sparke informs his family about his love for horses, but Thunder orders him to put his focus on school instead. The next day, he ignores his uncles demands and visits the racing track, where his instinctive rapport of a stallion impresses Godaws seductive daughter, CriCri June Haver. She convinces Jed Bruce Ward Bond to help Sparke learn how to drive. Even though he performs poorly during his first trainings, Sparke is allowed to come back due to his humility. While bonding with Char and CriCri, he learns how to successfully guide a harness horse. ........

Source: Wikipedia