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McFarland, USA
2015 128 min United States of America PG 12+
★7.4
Drama, Family
Director: Niki Caro
Trailers
Description
A track coach in a small California town transforms a team of athletes into championship contenders.
US Gross:
$44.48M
Worldwide:
$45.71M
Starring
Kevin Costner
Actor
Maria Bello
Actor
Ramiro Rodriguez
Actor
Awards
4 wins & 3 nominations total
Key opinion
McFarland, USA is widely regarded as a heart-warming and effective entry in the sports drama genre that succeeds through strong performances and an inspiring, albeit formulaic, narrative. While some critics find the plot predictable and conventional, most viewers appreciate its earnest emotional delivery and character-driven focus.
| Acting | Kevin Costner provides a grounded, charismatic performance that serves as the anchor for the film's emotional journey. | |
| Acting | The supporting cast of young, relatively unknown actors brings authenticity to their roles as a close-knit group of student athletes. | |
| Screenplay | The narrative follows a highly predictable, classic underdog sports formula that offers little in terms of structural innovation. | |
| Emotion | The film succeeds as a wholesome and inspiring family drama, effectively balancing social themes with a feel-good tone. | |
| Screenplay | Opinions on the script are split; some find the narrative simplistic and cliché, while others value its sincere execution of human connection and personal growth. |