Powerful documentary hits the screen

By Melissa Piche Times Contributor

When the lights go down at the Joyland Theatre on Nov. 23, the Strathmore community will experience something far more profound than just a film screening. 

Rescued Hearts, a powerful new documentary exploring the healing bond between humans and horses, is set to bring inspiration, connection and heartfelt emotion to Alberta audiences.

“We’ve been working with horses for over 15 years,” said Carolyn Charles, senior instructor and facilitator/director of sales and marketing for Equine Connection. “Every single person who steps into the arena leaves changed – not because of us, but because of the horses themselves. They’re the ones who teach, guide, and heal.”

Hosted by Equine Connection – The Academy of Equine Assisted Learning, the event is drawing horse lovers and newcomers alike. With only 150 tickets available, excitement is high. 

“It’s not just watching a matinee,” said Founder and Master Instructor Kari Fulmek of Equine Connection.

The filmmakers are coming all the way to Strathmore to attend the showing, a very unique and surreal experience for both horse enthusiasts and non-horse people. 

“It’s not just about watching; it’s about feeling, connecting and remembering that healing can take many forms,” said Charles. 

Rescued Hearts has been shown around the world, but this intimate Alberta screening stands out as a unique community celebration. The evening includes a Q&A session with the filmmakers and a special VIP dinner at the Strathmore Station, for a small number of attendees. 

With only a few VIP tickets left, Fulmek and Charles both expressed how incredible the opportunity is for guests to sit down with the producer and director, to really get to know the people behind this amazing film. 

Equine Connection, based in Wheatland County, has spent more than a decade helping people of all ages build essential life skills through horse-human connection. Their programs support individuals recovering from addiction, at-risk youth and anyone seeking personal growth and healing.

Fulmek explained how powerful the horse-humane connection can be.  

“When people spend even 15 minutes with a horse, they come out different because the horse demands that you be present; that’s an amazing feeling,” said Fulmek. “A horse’s heart is five times larger than ours.”

She explains how their electromagnetic field can extend up to 15 feet and when we stand near horses, our heart rhythms begin to sync. 

“That’s why so many people feel that healing when they’re with a horse,” she said.

For the organizers, bringing Rescued Hearts to Strathmore is about more than just promoting a film. It’s about community. 

“Since our World closure, we have an extreme disconnect. Not only disconnect from ourselves, but from people, things have changed,” said Charles. “This is a beautiful way to bring this open-heart feeling of like-minded people where we all need a little bit of feeling or a little bit of warm fuzzies again and to reconnect.” 

Charles said people will be blown away learning that there is another way for them to grow and maybe get help if that is what they’re after. 

Local businesses are also being invited to take part through sponsorships and contributions. Each attendee will receive a gift bag filled with items and information from area sponsors. 

“It’s such a great way for local organizations to showcase what they do,” said Fulmek. 

The pair said it’s not just local people attending – they’re expecting people from Calgary and beyond. What a great way to showcase the heart of our small town. 

The Joyland Theatre, a cherished local landmark, provides the perfect backdrop for the event. “It’s such a community-felt space,” said Charles. “The atmosphere, the popcorn, the old balcony, it just feels right. This is about coming home, connecting and being part of something meaningful.”

Tickets are available online at rescuedheartsfilm.com and through equineconnection.ca/rescuedhearts. No tickets will be sold at the door.

 “Rescued Hearts shows us what happens when we listen to the horse, really listen, and allow them to show us what’s possible,” said Charles.