McFarland, USA

— A pretty good, uplifting, true story that isn’t too schmaltzy, thanks to Kevin Costner’s on-screen charm and Caro’s somewhat subtle direction. The seven guys on the showcased cross-country team each hold their own and, even though we’re pretty sure things will end well, it’s a pleasant ride with an occasional, expected tug at our heartstrings. Better than many films with similar stories about an underdog team joining forces with a down-and-out coach and both being the better for it. (DVD)

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[2015, 129 min. Directed by Niki Caro, Starring Kevin Costner, Ramiro Rodriguez, Carlos Pratts, and Johnny Ortiz.]
http://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/mcfarland-usa-2015