From working in the fields of French Camp to floating in the zero gravity of space, José M. Hernández's incredible journey has been brought to life in the new Amazon Prime movie, "A Million Miles Away." Award-winning actor Michael Peña stars as Hernández, capturing the resilience and relentless determination that led him to become an astronaut, even after numerous rejections from NASA.
The film, which premiered at Regal Stockton City Center, aims to inspire young viewers with the idea that through hard work and determination, any dream is within reach. It has garnered global attention and will be released worldwide on Amazon Prime Video starting September 15.
"A Million Miles Away" is more than just an inspiring story for Hernández, who considers Stockton his hometown. It is a testament to what can be achieved through perseverance and faith. "This movie is a powerful reminder that no dream is too big when armed with hard work and determination," said Hernández.
In a philanthropic move, Amazon donated $10,000 to Hernández's non-profit organization prior to the premiere. The organization encourages young people to explore careers in the STEM fields—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
As students, watching the life of a local hero unfold on the big screen could serve as a source of inspiration as we navigate the academic year. "A Million Miles Away" is not just a movie; it's a lesson in resilience, a window into the life of a community member who dared to reach for the stars, literally and figuratively.