McFarland
Starring Kevin Costner, Carlos Pratts
Directed by Niki Caro
Disney’s new sports drama is like a batch of your mom’s beloved chocolate chip cookies – you know exactly what you’re going to get but, boy, does it taste good.
Based on the true story of 1980s track coach Jim White, Kevin Costner, enjoying a full-fledged comeback, portrays the protagonist who, after being fired from a string of jobs for his erratic temper, lands an underwhelming gig teaching cross country running to the boys of the predominantly Latino community of McFarland in California’s Central Valley.
Reluctant at first to listen to their new coach, the students soon rally around the stoic White as he imbues their potential for greatness.
Director Niki Caro sets the tone early and audiences know what they’re in for; it may be another rousing story of overcoming the odds and following your heart but it’s hard not to root for everyone along for the ride and the film’s examination of racial tension is commendable albeit simplistic.
Costner, who seems to be aging like a fine wine and actually becoming a better actor, is solid and balances his performance with just enough edge and sentimentality. The runners, including Carlos Pratts and Johnny Ortiz, avoid the distraction of being recognizable actors and let their compelling performances speak for themselves.
Technically, the movie is beautiful to watch thanks to Terry Stacey’s crisp cinematography that captures the film’s dust-caked setting.
McFarland doesn’t break any new narrative ground and the script could have used some finesse but it’s not without its inspirational charms.
