The Art of Random Willy-Nillyness: McFarland USA Review
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Saturday, June 13, 2015

McFarland USA Review


If you know me, you know I am a sucker for sports movies and any movie with Kevin Costner. And a Kevin Costner sports movie is like heaven.

That is why I loved McFarland USA. Here is the synopsis of the movie:

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.



I think why I loved it is because it is a feel good movie based on a true story. Like all sports movies, there are always underdogs and, if the movie is good, you end up rooting for them. This is what I did when watching this movie. The movie is a little formula but most sports movies usually are. But you know what? That's okay by me.

I also loved it because it reminded me of my own family and culture. So many instances in this movie made me think about my mom or cousins. But there are also a few missed opportunities to talk about the plight of the migrant workers in the Central Valley. I also love the fact that it is a movie about Latinos because there are few of those.



I also felt that Kevin Costner did a wonderful job as Coach White. The real standouts are the kids through Carlos Pratts and Ramiro Rodriguez are wonderful as the kids that Coach White wants to motive. Maria Bello is great as Kevin Costner's movie wife.

Overall, the movie will leave you satisfied and happy. It is always good to watch movies that make you realize that so many people have so many obstacles in front of them but still do great things. I give McFarland USA a thumbs up! Take the kids and enjoy.



McFarland USA on Disney Blu-ray Combo Pack, Disney Movies Anywhere and Digital HD is available now!!!

7 comments:

  1. I like sports movies too. Sort of weird because I'm not a big sports fan... I haven't seen this yet. It looks good!

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  2. Sounds pretty good and I true stories I am always interested in as well.

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  3. I'm a big fan of Kevin Costner. I've seen the movie trailer of "McFarland" and it looks like its going to be a good one.

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  4. I showed the pre-view of this movie to my students and they loved it. I really want to show this movie to my students.

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  5. I have always loved Kevin Costner...the older the better! This looks like a really great movie that you could watch with the family. Other than animated movies, seems harder to find nowadays.

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  6. I also enjoy movies where obstacles are overcome. I prefer to feel good after watching movies. This looks like a good summer movie to enjoy with the grandkids.

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  7. Wow I didn't know this movie was based on a true story, oh now I want to see this! and I love Kevin Costner!

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