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The boys and I saw McFarland USA this weekend! All 3 of us loved it!
About the film – “Based on the 1987 true story, “McFarland, USA” follows novice runners from McFarland, an economically challenged town in California’s farm-rich Central Valley, as they give their all to build a cross-country team under the direction of Coach Jim White (Kevin Costner), a newcomer to their predominantly Latino high school. Coach White and the McFarland students have a lot to learn about each other but when White starts to realize the boys’ exceptional running ability, things begin to change. Soon something beyond their physical gifts becomes apparent—the power of family relationships, their unwavering commitment to one another and their incredible work ethic. With grit and determination, the unlikely band of runners eventually overcomes the odds to forge not only a championship cross-country team but an enduring legacy as well. Along the way, Coach White realizes that his family finally found a place to call home and both he and his team achieve their own kind of American dream.”
The city actually reminded us of a lot of towns near us and the same with the families. There were SO many lessons my boys can take from this movie. We’ll definitely be buying it so they can watch it again. Hard work, family, love, perseverance and it’s based on a true story so, so good.
I’d definitely say it’s best for older kids, not because of content, but just because it may not hold the younger ones’ attention like a lot of live action movies. Overall a great film to take your entire family to! A couple of tips – bring tissues and be prepared to want to eat Mexican food after (although you could pretty much say that any day of the week for me).
Let me know if you saw it and what you think!
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Fun Facts: My great-great grandfather is JB McFarland, the founder of McFarland, CA. My oldest uncle still lives there, and Mr. White was my mom’s 5th grade teacher (and also taught her four brothers in various grades and subjects through the years). However, the town is still so small they don’t have a theater to watch the movie 🙂
Megan! Those are totally fun facts! How awesome (and what a small world)!
I’m glad to hear it’s as good as it looks! My boys want to see it so we’ll probably go soon too. Thanks for the review!
You’re welcome! I think you’ll love it!