A Million Miles Away review: Inspiring drama soars high >

A Million Miles Away narrates the true story of Jose Hernandez, who went from working on farms as a child to becoming the first immigrant farmworker to go to space.

Story

Jose Hernandez (Michael Peña) works at farms in different towns of California with his family after they immigrate from Mexico. This results in him frequently changing schools, hampering his growth. Jose is an intelligent child with immense potential.

One of his teachers notes this and asks his parents to not travel constantly. Although his parents brush it off initially, they come to understand that she is right.

Jose grows up to become a crucial engineer in the USA. He meets the love of his life, Adela, and gets married to her. But there’s something always on his mind.

Since childhood, Jose has always dreamed of becoming an astronaut. However, his immigrant status inevitably leads to discrimination. Does he overcome all the hurdles and snatch his dream?

Performances

As Jose, Peña doesn’t hit a single wrong note. His calm yet endearing personality makes you root for him despite all the odds. Salazar complements him brilliantly. Their chemistry is evident from the moment they share the screen.

Positives

It’s not always easy to recreate someone’s true story, but director Alejandra Márquez Abella is highly successful. Jose Hernandez’s story is one that needs to be told and heard.

Right from the initial parts that show his childhood as a farmworker, you know this film has the potential to tug at your heartstrings.

Jose never backs down even when facing odds that aren’t in his favour. A Million Miles Away will no doubt inspire many to never give up on their dreams.

The use of music throughout the film is impeccable. It elevates many scenes and makes you truly feel what the character is feeling at the point.

How A Million Miles Away comes a full circle at the end is unexpected and thus, has immense impact. The payoff is absolutely worth it.

Negatives

The runtime is a tad too long. The film could have been crisper and more riveting as some of the scenes seem a bit dragged.

Verdict

A Million Miles Away is an excellent film that depicts stunning a story of persevering and never settling. It barely puts a foot wrong and should definitely make your binge list.