Horseback

Horseback tells the story of Ali, a 10-year-old refugee boy, seeking asylum with his father and older brother in the west of Ireland.

Haunted by the loss of his mother, Ali struggles to find peace in this strange new world. His grief runs so deep that even seeing a photograph of his mother is unbearable. Retreating inward, Ali shuts himself off from those who try to help him, trapped in silence he is unable to speak.

Everything changes when Ali is introduced to a gentle piebald pony and its owner Kitty, a traveller woman. Befriending them both, Ali discovers a wordless connection, built on trust and calm, mirroring the warmth and safety he once felt when in his mother’s presence.

But when the time comes for the pony and Kitty to leave, Ali faces heartbreak once again. This second loss, however, stirs something powerful inside him. Through his pain, he finds the courage to speak, finally sharing his grief and longing with his father.

In his father’s arms, Ali’s healing begins. Through loss and love, Horseback becomes a story of hope, resilience, and the quiet strength it takes to find one’s voice again.