Much of the film is primarily visual, with Spirit’s thoughts indicated by gestures or expressed in the limited narration and beautiful music. But the film also touches on some darker elements of white man’s expansion into the West as the soldiers seem somewhat vicious dealing with Spirit and Little Creek’s people. Young viewers especially may be upset when Spirit’s friend Rain is shot and Little Creek tenderly comforts the wounded animal. The action, as the train engine tumbles through buildings and explodes, endangering Spirit, is extremely intense for younger viewers. “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron” is a highly entertaining story set in a historical context, that could spark some excellent dialogue between parents and children.