Pure Grit is both a thrilling tale of extreme bareback horse racing, and an

intimate love story. Chronicling three years in the life of a young Native

American bareback horse racer, her unwavering determination, and the

relationships that sustain her.

Sharmaine is a former horse racing champion, determined to ride and win. It’s

been a year since she last raced. A year since her sister was paralysed in a

catastrophic accident on the track. Sharmaine quit racing to care for her.

In the stunning Wyoming wilderness of the Wind River reservation, Sharmaine

and her new girlfriend Savannah begin to build a life for themselves. They

hope for better. But the atmosphere at home soon deteriorates and the young

lovers are forced to leave for the industrial Commerce City, Denver. The city

brings freedom and opportunity, but also distractions and a strain on their

fledgling relationship. When racing season starts up, Sharmaine and Savannah

hit the road and put it all on the line. With a new horse from her city earnings,

Sharmaine sees the potential for a fresh start, but life, like the race track,

doesn’t always go according to plan.

Includes Q+A with director Kim Bartley