Negligence by one of the hired hands and poor choices by several girls lead to a tragedy at Pine Hollow when the barn starts on fire and horses are trapped. The Saddle Club and their friends work feverishly to free the horses amidst clouds of smoke. Blame is placed and harsh words are spoken as the cause of the fire is investigated.

As the farm works to rebuild, love is in the air when Phil looks for courage and an opportunity to tell Stevie he would like to be more than friends, and comes full circle for Max and Deborah with wedding bells in their future. Stevie, Lisa, Carole and Phil plan a special surprise for the future Mr. and Mrs., but their plans go awry when more tragedy hits Pine Hollow. Lisa is goaded by Veronica into jumping her horse higher than she should and is left fighting for her life. Wedding plans are put on hold as everyone waits, watches and hopes for their friend’s recovery.

“The Mane Event” has an engaging and captivating storyline. Strong values including commitment, second changes, forgiveness and putting others’ needs ahead of your own are woven throughout. However, there is a scene in which tarot cards are used by Kristy as she attempts to predict another character’s chances for success in a future love relationship. Consequences result, not from the tarot card readings but from concurrent, unrelated poor choices. Parents are advised to be aware of this reference to the occult in an otherwise well-done film that we award the Dove Family Approved Seal for all ages.