Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that McFarland, USA is an inspiring sports drama about a Mexican-American cross-country team from rural California. Based on a true story, the movie stars Kevin Costner as the team's coach, who's determined to guide a bunch of farm workers' kids into a team that's good enough to compete in the state's first cross-country championship. Although there are a few mature themes regarding class and privilege, as well as a couple of instances of fist fights, a possible suicide attempt, a knife fight that lands a couple of kids in the hospital, and a father who's aggressive toward his family, there are also tons of positive messages about teamwork, cooperation, and community. Coach White isn't perfect but means well and is devoted to his runners, and the portrayal of the students and their families is nuanced and uplifting -- most of the boys have hardworking, loving, intergenerational families.
Sexual
Content
Julie and Thomas flirt, dance, hold hands, hug, and kiss. Mr. and Mrs. White kiss and hug. A character's sister is pregnant and is eventually seen with her baby.
Violence
Coach White is dismissed after throwing a cleat too close to his QB's head, making the player's cheek bleed. A mother shouts at her husband and asks whether he's going to hit her. He throws a beer bottle at a wall and then punches the wall as well. Thomas gets in a fight with someone who insults his sister. A knife fight lands a couple of kids in the hospital. Possible suicide attempt.
Language
Mostly insults like "shut up," "jerk," and "loser." The word "picker" is used both pejoratively and matter-of-factly to describe the farm workers.
Social
Behavior
Strongly positive messages centering on teamwork and cooperation. Challenges viewers not to judge others by stereotypes and to move past whatever antiquated notions they have about what and who is "American." Shows that you can befriend your neighbors and be part of a community, as long as that community is welcoming. If you expect greatness from someone, they'll try to achieve it; but if you expect nothing, they won't try at all.
Consumerism
Lots of Coke (also Cherry Coke) in the movie. Also Gatorade, Coleman camping equipment, Mayflower truck, U-Haul.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
A couple of adult characters drink bottles of beer.
