Normally, when I go see a film, I’ve seen the trailer 3-4 times and have a good handle on the premise. When I went to see the screening of McFarland, I didn’t have many insight into what the actual movie was about. I had seen a few advertisements about it being a movie about running and that it starred the incredible Kevin Costner. If I had planned better, been better informed, I would have known to bring a box of kleenex. This story, based on actual events, is the story of one man, Jim White (Kevin Costner) that transformed a group of young men from a Mexican-American high school who had little to no aspirations and gave them a chance, believed in them and ultimately made them champions.
Each young man in the story of McFarland comes from a family that wakes up at the crack of down, works out in the fields and returns home tired and defeated. This is the only life these boys think they can ever inspire to, they know no other way. That is until Jim White comes to town. A down and out teacher who’s one last shot is to “make it work” in McFarland notices quickly that the boys he’s coaching at his high school can RUN. Never before has he trained a cross country team, but the principle and Coach White (or as they like to call him Blanco) have nothing to lose. He goes above and beyond to show that he can make these boys champions; he stays up late studying tapes, he even puts his money where his mouth is and shows up to assist these boys families in the fields. He starts to become a part of everyone’s families and in turn, earns the respect of the town of McFarland, but more importantly, these young men.
Glad I read this review, I will check our local theatre and make a point to see it. I really enjoy Kevin Costner’s work. Thanks!
Thanks for reading Brenda 🙂 Enjoy the movie!
Thanks for the heads up about the Kleenex, I’ll be sure to have some handy when I see the movie as I get emotional very easily.
LOL, me too Kathleen 🙂
Great review! I hadn’t thought about going to see this before, but now I think I just might!
Have fun!
I haven’t seen much about this movie either. Thanks for the review. Now I will probably see it, though I’ll wait till it’s released on DVD.
I hope you enjoy it Emily!
Wow a great review!! I am going to have to see this movie!!
I hear it will not disappoint Amanda..
I’m a cryer so when I see this I know there will be water works! Thanks for the warning! I’ve been a fan of Mr Costner’s for years!
LOL, bring the tissue!
I’ll admit, I haven’t seen a Kevin Costner movie in years…. this might change that.
I have not seen this one yet,thanks for the review !