Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Inspiring docu about runner's bid for world record.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
From Core to Sun
Parent and Kid Reviews
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 : Adventures
- Character Strengths : Perseverance
- Run time : 90 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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