What makes McFarland USA so successful, and so bracing, is the way that its protagonist becomes aware of something that is rarely broached in these sorts of narratives - his own privilege.

Niki Caro uses every device at her disposal to make a rousing, feelgood movie but risks turning the film into a glorified fairytale in the process.

McFarland, USA is a modern anomaly — a Kevin Costner sports movie that’s genuinely rousing.

'McFarland USA' doesn't actually concern itself with going beneath the skin. Even if it did, there really isn't much else there that needs to be said. Or seen.