In the tradition of Disney sports movies comes “McFarland, USA” based on a true story of underdogs triumphing over tremendous obstacles. This heartwarming drama follows novice runners who strive to build a cross-country team under Coach Jim White (Kevin Costner) in their predominantly Latino high school. Everyone has a lot to learn about each other, but when Coach realizes the boys’ exceptional running ability, things change. Beyond their talent, it’s the power of family, commitment to each other and work ethic that transform them into champions — helping them achieve their own American dream.
Now, perhaps you're thinking to yourself, 'ANOTHER underdogs overcoming the odds sports story? Do we really need another? Aren't these getting a little old?' And I get it. There truly are a lot of sports movies with this theme... in fact its the common theme amongst most sports films it seems. But honestly? They keep making them because everyone still loves a good story about overcoming the obstacles! I don't even really like sports myself, but I find myself drawn to these stories. With so many negative stories in the news, its great to watch something positive instead. McFarland USA was just that!
From the very beginning it was a great story of stepping out of your comfort zone to discover amazing possibilities! This starts with Coach Jim White moving his family into McFarland, a neighborhood that was very much predominately Latino- certainly not the community they were used to. When he decides to build a cross country team at the school, he again encourages these boys who have never done this before to work hard and make it happen. They accomplish amazing things as a team that no one would have ever seen coming.
But this story goes far beyond a story of sports. It is truly a story of the power of hard work, a story of family and a story of finding home, in the most unexpected of places. I truly enjoyed watching this movie with my whole family, and I am certain your family will as well.
McFarland, USA is available to purchase now.
SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mcfarlandusa
I love feel good movies!! This definitely sounds like one of those!! I always wish I had been more involved in high school activities and sports. I love the companionship!! Unfortunately I was never coordinated enough lol!! But I do hope that my kids will get involved :)
ReplyDeleteMy 16 yoa son is an avid runner and I think he'd really like this movie. I'll probably rent it on DVD soon.
ReplyDeleteI saw this movie a couple of weeks ago and it was really good. I had no idea what it was about and my husband brought it home to watch. As I watched I was surprised to find out that it takes place near the area where my husband and I grew up! We've gone walking as a family on one of the tracks where one of the races takes place. What was even more interesting to me was that I remember in high school knowing cross country runners and watching them practice after school. Almost the entire team at my high school was descended from migrant workers and they were constantly winning. It was pretty amazing to see how it all started. :)
ReplyDeleteI've never seen this before, but it looks like a good one to watch with my husband.
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