I like the idea of a film about how sport can transform lives. Kevin Costner does well as Coach White, who starts training a troubled group of Mexican boys in cross country running. The film makes beautiful use of light and makes the flat fields of southern California look stunning. The film is refreshing in portraying Anglos and Mexicans as trying to get along. The Mexicans might be poor, but their community is close and loving. There is lots of gentle humour and a bit of the coach being a fish out of water. But generally, the outcome of this movie is not really in doubt. But it's a well written and heartfelt movie, about teenagers trying to improve their lot in life. The message is, there is no way around working hard towards what you want to achieve, and doing your best. And the support of being in a team is amazing. Sure, it's a bit of a schmaltzy film at times, but it has moments of genuine inspiration.
Review of McFarland, USA
