ET has your exclusive first look at Diane Lane's portrayal of the real-life housewife-turned-breeder of the Triple Crown-winning thoroughbred, 'Secretariat,' in theaters October 8!

"She did something unique at that point in time and it was quite controversial," says Diane of her real-life counterpart, Penny Chenery. "[Secretariat] was the ultimate living, breathing icon."

'Secretariat' chronicles Penny's life-changing decision to continue her father's legacy when she inherits his Virginia-based Meadow Stables, despite her lack of horse-racing knowledge. Learning to navigate the male-dominated business of horse racing in the early Seventies, Penny wisely hires veteran trainer Lucien Laurin (John Malkovich) to foster the promising chestnut-colored colt that they affectionately nicknamed "Big Red" -- known to the world as Secretariat. Defying all the odds, Secretariat grows to become what may be the greatest racehorse of all time -- setting race records that still stand today.

"Entourage" star Kevin Connolly also stars in the film as sports writer Bill Nack, and he observes, "ESPN did the 100 greatest athletes, and Secretariat was ahead of Mickey Mantle."

Nelsan Ellis, who plays horse groomer Eddie Sweat, says, "He was like the Michael Jordan of all race horses."

"There were so many emotions going on bringing this story to the screen," says Diane. "It touches the heart in a way that has no words."

Watch ET for more with the stars of 'Secretariat.'

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