Latina actress Martha Higareda plays (Lupe) in the film McFarland USA in theaters February 20, 2015. The beautiful story of McFarland, USA is based on the 1987 true story, of novice runners from McFarland, an economically challenged town in California’s farm-rich Central Valley, as they give their all to build a cross-country team under the direction of Coach Jim White (Kevin Costner), a newcomer to their predominantly Latino high school. Coach White and the McFarland students have a lot to learn about each other but when White starts to realize the boys’ exceptional running ability, things begin to change. Soon something beyond their physical gifts becomes apparent—the power of family relationships, their unwavering commitment to one another and their incredible work ethic. With grit and determination, the unlikely band of runners eventually overcomes the odds to forge not only a championship cross-country team but an enduring legacy as well. Along the way, Coach White realizes that his family finally found a place to call home and both he and his team achieve their own kind of American dream.
Mexican-born actress and model Martha Higareda is the daughter of actress Martha Cervantes and artist Jose Luis Higareda. She began acting on the stage at a very early age, along with dancing jazz, flamenco, tap and folklore. At 14, she moved to Mexico City from her native Tabasco to pursue an acting career.She made her film debut in 2002 in Amar te duele (2002) ("Love Hurts"). This highly acclaimed Mexican film was a huge success, and Martha received several awards, including the silver goddess "Revelation Actress" from the Mexican Cinema Journalists and an MTV Latino Movie Award for Favorite Actress. Shortly thereafter, she appeared in several TV shows which later on in her career put her in the position to expand her career. She has an international career as well, having worked in american productions such as "Street Kings" with Forrest Whitaker and Keanu Reeves, "Smoking Aces 2" "Mariachi Gringo" "Lies in Plain Sight" "Hawaii Five-0" "CSI Miami" "Royal Pains" and now "McFarland". Latin Times briefly spoke to Martha Higareda about this opportunity to work in the film McFarland, USA.
Latin Times: What does this movie based on a true story mean to you?
Martha Higareda: I think this is such a beautiful story and so important for the latino community. I feel so blessed to have been part of this amazing movie and to work with such amazing people. It shows that no matter where you come from you can achieve your dreams and it gives such a positive message and inspiration.
LT: How was working with Kevin Costner?
MH: Kevin is great and such a humble actor. I remember during one of our days on set we were taking a break and a group of us were sitting on the floor just singing and some dancing goofing around. Kevin came over with his guitar and sat with us and just started playing it. It was such a great experience to be with him on set and to know that although we all look up to him because of his impressive history that he is approachable and nice and would mingle with us all and never asked for special treatments. It was an absolute honor to work with him.
LT: What do you think will resonate with the people who go see this film?
MH: They will fall in love with a beautiful story of hope, resilence and inspiration. Many will identify themselves with many of the characters because we all have dreams and this story shows us that we must always pursue them.
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