Coming-of-age stories are a dime a dozen, but every so often one comes along that feels truly fresh. Horsegirls is that rare gem—a heartfelt indie drama that puts a spotlight on the autistic experience while exploring the quirky, competitive world of hobby horsing. And we've got your exclusive first look at the trailer and poster.
Starring Gretchen Mol and Tony Hale, Horsegirls premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2025 and is set to gallop into theaters next month. The film follows Margarita (played by Lillian Carrier), a young woman on the autism spectrum who lives with her mother (Mol), who is battling serious health issues. As her mother's condition worsens, Margarita faces the daunting prospect of navigating the world on her own. Her salvation comes in an unexpected form: hobby horsing, a sport that combines gymnastics with the art of "riding" a hobbyhorse. Under the guidance of Coach (Jerod Haynes), Margarita discovers a passion that could give her the confidence and skills she needs to thrive independently.
The trailer offers a glimpse into Margarita's world—her deadpan explanation to a bewildered shopkeeper (Iqbal Theba) that she was named after her parents' margarita-fueled conception, her tender bond with her mother, and the exhilarating freedom she finds on her hobbyhorse. It's a story about finding your tribe and your purpose, even when the odds are stacked against you.
Lillian Carrier, who previously starred in Freeform's Everything's Gonna Be Okay and guest-starred on As We See It and NCIS: New Orleans, delivers a breakout performance. She's joined by a stellar cast: Gretchen Mol, once dubbed the "It Girl of the Nineties" by Vanity Fair, brings her trademark depth to the role of a mother facing her own mortality. Tony Hale, beloved for his Emmy-winning turn on Veep and his iconic portrayal of Buster Bluth on Arrested Development, adds his signature blend of humor and heart. (Hale will also reprise his role as Forky in this summer's Toy Story 5.) Jerod Haynes (Project Blue Book, Good Girls) and Iqbal Theba (Glee's Principal Figgins, Super Troopers 3) round out the ensemble.
Behind the camera, writer-director Lauren Meyering makes her feature debut with Horsegirls. Her script landed on the prestigious 2020 Black List of best unproduced screenplays, and she based the story on the real-life experiences of her friend Mackenzie Breeden, who also serves as a producer. The film is dedicated to Breeden's mother, Sandra. Producers Alix Madigan (Winter's Bone) and Michael Sherman (Native Son) helped bring this passion project to life.
Horsegirls arrives in theaters on July 17, courtesy of Sumerian Pictures. For more on the latest in film and TV, check out our roundup of 8 upcoming thriller movies ranked by anticipation.
Stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot for more updates on Horsegirls and other must-see releases.
