The newly released family film “McFarland USA” will bring a smile to the lips and an occasional tear to the eye of every viewer. Based on a true story, the movie takes place in McFarland, CA, a poverty-stricken small town consisting of mainly Mexican-Americans. After being fired from his previous teaching job, Jim White (Kevin Costner) and his family moves to McFarland where he becomes a gym teacher at the main high school. The family feels out of place in their new community, often experiencing language and cultural barriers with their neighbors.

While driving to work one day, White has an epiphany when he sees his students running from their early-morning farming jobs to school. With their incredible speed and endurance it was evident that they had a true talent. After getting approval from the principal, he decides to start a cross-country team. To make it work, he had to gain the trust and approval from the parents. Over time as he becomes involved in the lives and families of the “pickers,” White faces a painful understanding of the harsh economic realities of McFarland.

Even with a major economic and experience disadvantage, the team’s determination and support from their community guides them to a first-place victory in the state championship.

All the adult performers in the film, including White’s wife (Maria Bello) and the mother of three runners (Diana Riva), were exceptional but it was the boys: (Ramiro Rodriguez, Carlos Pratts, Hector Duran, Sergio Avelar, Rafael Martinez, Johnny Ortiz and Michael Aguero) that were the backbone of the movie.

“McFarland, USA” is a feel-good movie that the whole family will enjoy. It leaves viewers with a greater appreciation of cross-county, and more importantly, the young hard-workers of our country.