From Core to Sun
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From Core to Sun
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that From Core to Sun is a documentary in Spanish with English subtitles about Ecuadorian Millán Ludeña's world record attempt to run a half-marathon in the deepest place on earth and then run and climb up the mountain that's the closest place on earth to the sun. It's an inspiring story of perseverance, endurance, and meeting challenges that help you grow, change, and evolve as a human being. He uses "crap" a couple of times; otherwise, there's no strong language. He and his girlfriend kiss several times. A medical exam shows a needle being inserted in his arm for a blood test; no blood's shown, but Millán winces in pain. The death at a young age of his best friend and its emotional impact on Millán are explored.
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What's the Story?
FROM CORE TO SUN follows Ecuadorian runner Millán Ludeña as he embarks on an attempt to set a Guinness World Record in running. In one continuous trip, he wants to travel to South Africa, where he'll run a half marathon in the world's deepest mine, about 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) below the earth's surface. From there he'll immediately travel back to Ecuador to summit Mt. Chimborazo's elevation of over 6,000 meters (19,000+ feet). Months of intense training, preparation, equipment, and logistics are needed if Millán is going to achieve his goal. We follow his triumphs and setbacks as we get to know Millán and the reasons why he wants to undertake this incredible challenge.
Is It Any Good?
Viewer's will be amazed and inspired by this man's attempt to run from the deepest depths to the highest heights, and while it's emotionally moving at times, it's a bit unsatisfying in the end. From Core to Sun spends a lot of time listening to Millán talk about how taking on challenges and facing fears is the way to grow and evolve as a human being, but a lack of follow-up after it's all over means we don't get to learn how he himself grew or changed after this experience. Some of the moments feel forced and manipulative, like when he's fist-pumping at the top of the lighthouse, or soul-searching in the woods.
That being said, Millán Ludeña is a terrific role model for a wide range of ages for perseverance, endurance, and pushing boundaries while you strive to meet life's challenges. Aside from a couple of uses of "crap," which kids who aren't reading carefully and/or don't speak Spanish won't notice, there's no content of concern, but the gentle pace and mature perspective make it best for patient tweens and up.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how From Core to Sun portrays Millán. What are his character strengths or weaknesses? Does he inspire you? How?
Is there something you'd like to do, or a goal you'd like to achieve, but have been afraid to try? How could you overcome your fear?
Who are some other athletes or competitors who inspire you? What do you admire about them? What can you learn from them?
Movie Details
- In theaters: June 1, 2018
- On DVD or streaming: June 11, 2019
- Director: Oliver Lee Garland
- Studio: Levector
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Sports and Martial Arts, Adventures, Great Boy Role Models
- Character Strengths: Perseverance
- Run time: 90 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: March 31, 2022
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