Dive into “A Million Miles Away”
Every once in a while, a story emerges that resonates with people from all walks of life, presenting an inspirational tale of determination, resilience, and dreams. “A Million Miles Away,” directed by Alejandra Marquez Abella, unfolds such a story. This biopic revolves around NASA Astronaut Jose M. Hernandez, shedding light on how his journey was brilliantly brought to the big screen.
“We have opportunities to stunt cast some roles, some rules that are very important, and it came out that Jamie Lee Curtis is a One Piece fan. As soon as she said that, we were like, okay, we have to try and get her on the show. What can we do?” said Matt Owens.
Who is Jose M. Hernandez?
Born in 1962 in French Camp, California, Jose’s humble beginnings rooted him in the life of a migrant farmworker. A turning point arrived when a 10-year-old Jose witnessed the Apollo 17 mission, igniting a burning passion for space. That same passion led him to the University of California Santa Barbara, earning him a Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering.
“After seeing astronaut Gene Cernan grace the moon during the Apollo 17 mission in 1972, he was inspired to be among the stars,” Hernandez reminisced.
Despite facing numerous rejections, his resilience paid off when, in 2004, he was selected for NASA’s coveted astronaut program. 2009 witnessed Hernandez making history, becoming the first migrant farm worker to venture into space.
Deciphering Fact from Film
There’s always a question with biopics: how much of it is genuine? While “A Million Miles Away” beautifully captures the essence of Hernandez’s life, it naturally took some creative liberties.
One of the film’s standout scenes touches upon Hernandez’s first day at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, addressing the prejudices he encountered.
“He had moments of self-doubt where he questioned whether he was worthy of the opportunities he’d been given,” Hernandez shared.
The film celebrates Hernandez’s expansive support system, featuring genuine moments and interactions with loved ones that moulded his journey. Authenticity is further enhanced through the real-life footage and resources provided by NASA.
However, it isn’t just about the struggles and achievements of an individual; the film dives deep into Mexican-American culture, rejoicing in its authenticity, from the music to the mouth-watering cuisine.
What the Movie Skipped
For all its authenticity, “A Million Miles Away” does omit specific details. While Hernandez’s stint at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is covered, his groundbreaking contribution to breast cancer detection is conspicuously absent. Despite this omission, Hernandez remains a steadfast supporter of the biopic, recognizing the challenges of encapsulating an entire life within a two-hour runtime.
While no film can capture every nuance of a person’s life, “A Million Miles Away” comes impressively close. It stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Jose M. Hernandez, a man who went from picking crops in Californian fields to touching the stars. The film not only offers viewers a glimpse into the life of a remarkable individual but also showcases the rich tapestry of Mexican-American culture. Through its captivating narrative and heartwarming moments, “A Million Miles Away” serves as a beacon of hope, proving that dreams, no matter how lofty, are always within reach.
