McFarland, USA

Welcome to the latest installment of “Reviewing Movies that Everyone’s Definitely Already Seen By Now, But That We See and Absolutely Love Without Recognizing That We’re Months If Not Years Too Late For” … Spirit’s Well-Beloved* (*Not Beloved) Review Column is back, everybody! This time, it’s yet another popular sports movie.

McFarland, USA, is all about running. Running from one’s problems, like the initially grouchy Coach Jim White, or running past every competitor on the course, like the McFarland High School cross-country legends who tear up the turf. It’s a beautiful story of empowerment and one I needed to see during my first weekend home from college. So- it’s a typical story because it’s about a team that starts off not-so-good and gets much better. The thing that sets this movie apart is that there’s a true and moving story behind it. Pictured here are the real Victor, Thomas, and Damacio of McFarland, USA – three of the boys who uplifted an entire community. It’s emotional to see the boys as farm pickers before they run to school. It’s moving to see the whole town hold their heads high because they are that proud of their boys. It makes you want to go for a run. One person can uplift many lives – it’s a wonderful reminder to have. 👟