McFarland USA

Based on an Inspirational True Story

Discover Your Inner Champion

New on Disney Blu-ray® Combo Pack, Disney Movies Anywhere, 

and Digital HD June 2nd

SYNOPSIS:                    
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.

CAST:                      
Kevin Costner (“Dances with Wolves,” “The Untouchables”), Maria Bello (“A History of Violence,” “Prisoners”), Carlos Pratts (“Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones,” “Out of the Fire”), Morgan Saylor (TV’s “Homeland,” “Cirque du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant”).

My Thoughts:
I have to admit that I am not a super sports fan, but I am a fan of touching sports themed movies where people triumph over not-so-great odds. This movie is now ranking among my favorite films of it's kind.

It's not surprising that Disney hit this one out of the park. When it comes to tugging on the heart strings... no one does it quite like Disney.  The kids in this story are real. Their stories are real. Their futures were really laid out for them, and they weren't looking that bright. This teacher was real. His desire to help them and make something great for them was real. Everyone in this movie was fighting their own battle... and everyone came out stronger because of it. It is a true feel-good movie.

There were many characters in this movie that I enjoyed. I mean, Costner nailed his role. But I think my favorite was Maria Bello. So often in these sports movies you see the family suffer. You see the husband and wife argue because of the time he spends away from home coaching and working. But in this case, he had an amazing, supportive wife. She wanted what was best for these boys, too. His entire family was a part of this journey and a part of this new community they find themselves a part of. It's very touching to see how this family evolves together.

I also loved the young boys in this film. They weren't troubled youth who needed saving. They were good kids with hard working parents. But those hard working parents were counting on them to help with the hard, manual labor filled life they lived. These boys didn't need saving, they needed a way to a brighter future. A brighter future that they already held the key to, they just needed someone to believe in them and push for them to achieve it.

I would definitely recommend checking out this great movie. It's entertaining, heartwarming, and overall a really fun experience.