Some of the most important casting decisions for The Cup have already been made and the papers signed. Director Simon Wincer has personally overseen the acquisition of more than two dozen Thoroughbreds, each of whom is now being schooled in the intricacies of the moviemaking art.

From The Man From Snowy River to The Lighthorsemen and The Young Black Stallion, Wincer’s ability as a filmmaker to capture the passion and allure of horses is unmatched in Hollywood, but he does admit there are one or two obstacles to recreating the dramatic running of the 2002 Melbourne Cup.

“We’ve got to find the perfect doubles for Media Puzzle, Vinnie Roe, and Pugin,” Wincer says as he singles out the three pre-race favorites. “And just one of each won’t do.”

Not surprisingly, the demands of filming require the all-important racing scenes to be shot several times. Different takes provide different angles on riders and runners, and that can be a tall order when recreating the Melbourne Cup, a taxing two-miler. So casting Media Puzzle, Vinnie Roe, and Pugin will be a challenge in itself. Not that Wincer is the least bit worried. Over a quarter-century ago, he brought the story of Phar Lap to the silver screen, and he is chomping at the bit to get back to Flemington Racecourse.