Today I enjoyed: A Million Miles Away.
A Million Miles Away is not your average sci-fi movie. It does not have the amazing CGI images and blockbuster appeal, but it really hits home nonetheless.
The movie is based on the true story of José M. Hernández, a Mexican-American engineer and former NASA astronaut. In the film Michael Peña brings him to life and boy does he do a great job!
The story begins with Hernández as a young boy, living half the year in the United States as a farmworker, and the other half in his home country Mexico. At an early stage, he develops an interest in space, and he shows exceptional mathematical skills at school, with one of his teachers realizing his potential and trying to set him on a trajectory for a successful career, outside farm work.
I am not going to dive deeper into the story, as you can certainly guess some aspects of his journey being hardship and struggles, but also persistence and success. This does not mean that the film gets boring, quite contrary. I felt like I lived through the challenges and setbacks together with José and I nearly shed a tear, when he is finally rewarded for his persistence and dedication.
This is certainly one of these inspiring movies, based on a true story, that always put me in a very positive and hopeful state of mind. Partially, because I am a huge space nerd and just love everything space, but also because - and I think everyone can relate - this kind of story sparks hope for the future in everyone. And that is certainly not only true for those coming from less fortunate backgrounds or those struggling in life, but for every single one of us.
If you have not picked up on it yet, let me spell it out: I love this movie and the emotions it transports, and I did feel wonderful after finishing it. If you get a chance to watch it, I hope you have the same experience I had.