Murphy's Stroke

The horse Gay Future is at the centre of an Irish betting syndicate in 1974 which saw trainer Antony Collins present a poor performing horse at his stables. The betting stakes were subsequently raised, before the real horse was entered in the race.

Directed by Frank Cvitanovich, Murphy's Stroke leans on a strong ensemble — Niall Tóibín, Pierce Brosnan, T.R. Bowen — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1980.