Hard Miles hauls its tired-out premise up approximately 750 miles of winding, mountainous roads in search of a foregone conclusion.

Matthew Modine finally gets the starring role he deserves, the first that’s fully tested him since his Eighties heyday, in this true-life sports drama about the healing power of cycling.

A formulaic sports movie that unfolds predictably, exactly on cue, with no surprises or upsets. But I warmed to its sensitivity; it possesses an insistence that these difficult boys are vulnerable and scared kids.

If Ratatouille‘s guiding principle was “Anyone can cook,” Hard Miles’ guiding principle might as well be “Anyone can cycle.” [...] an entertaining and emotional film that will satisfy your need for sports dramas tinged with inspiration.