McFarland High cross country team bought to the silver screen

In McFarland, a small town in California’s Central Valley, a group of cross country runners are brought together under the coaching of newcomer Coach Jim White (Kevin Costner). Based on a 1987 true story, McFarland USA sport drama film is a family friendly movie that proves that with commitment and determination you can achieve anything.

Once arriving to the new city, White and his family have to learn to fit in the Latino town. Coach White is brought to the Latino high school in hopes of finding a job; while teaching a PE class he comes across some students with exceptional running abilities.

On a drive home from work, White coincidentally sees a student of his, Thomas, played by (Carlos Pratts), who runs home after school every day. White realizes the boys’ talents and decides to form the school’s first cross country team.

The film portrays the social issues of the 1980’s that the town and runners experience. In order to grow closer as a team, the runners need to go through trials and losses to achieve greatness. In conjunction to the poverty-stricken town, the cross country team struggles to manage school, life at home and practice.

Throughout the movie, Coach White transforms the team of athletes to championship contenders. The movie was directed by Niki Caro and produced by Walt Disney Pictures; experience the heart felt movie in theaters, Feb. 20.

After experiencing this movie, it gave me a feel good feeling; unlike most movies I was proud of the ending and was excited for my friends to watch it. I like that it took place in a small town in California, it was definitely unique. The film had a different plot than most Disney movies, I liked that it featured the inside story of the lives of teenagers who woke up every morning and worked for their parents.

Once learning of the movie’s plot, I recall when I used to participate on a cross country team myself. So while watching the races, I could remember what it felt like to run miles in the heat.

During the movie, not only does White act as the coach but as a father figure to the team. He realizes the poverty in the boys lives and purchases new running shoes and uniforms for each. In doing this, the boy learn to trust in White and are able to grow closer to him as a team.

This movie definitely is worth watching with your family. It has some funny moments that keep you laughing but also some sad parts. It introduces family lifestyles and cultures of latino families that live in small towns which is not found in most Disney movies. I would recommend this movie to anyone looking for a true story that incorporates heart and real life.

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For more reviews, read the Jan. 27 article, Mystery Spot lives up to hype, expectations.

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