The mesmerizing spectacle of the Apollo 17 moon landing ignited a profound desire within José M. Hernández—a wish to ascend to the stars as an astronaut. However, the prospect of his life story being transformed into a full-fledged feature film was far from his thoughts.
Hernández remarked, “Becoming an astronaut wasn’t driven by the notion that my story would become a movie. My aspiration was simple: I yearned to venture into space.” He humbly expressed his elation, acknowledging the rarity of having a cinematic rendition of his life’s narrative, stating, “I feel genuinely happy and honored because having a film made about one’s life isn’t an everyday occurrence.”
Indeed, his journey is an extraordinary one.
A native of French Camp and a resident of Stockton, Hernández’s roots are deeply intertwined with his hometown. Emerging from a background as a farmworker, he dared to reach for the cosmos. His quest was marked by persistence—though NASA declined his application 11 times, he persevered, ultimately achieving his dream on the twelfth attempt. This determined effort culminated in him becoming the first Mexican American to journey into space.
The cinematic endeavor titled “A Million Miles Away,” produced by Amazon Studios, gracefully traces Hernández’s trajectory. While the film showcases Michael Peña as the lead, the spotlight shone brightly on Hernández during the movie’s premiere at The Regal Stockton City Center in Stockton.
Hernández envisions the film, inspired by his life’s narrative, as a beacon of inspiration for all, particularly the young generation. He shared, “I hope it becomes an enduring source of inspiration—an instant classic that empowers not just thousands or hundreds of thousands, but millions of kids, even adults, to unlock their full potential.”
He fervently wishes that immigrant children, facing their own trials and tribulations, will find solace and encouragement through his story. He stressed, “Children who resemble them, speak like them, and share their background can witness firsthand that someone akin to them overcame challenges to realize their dreams. And they too can follow suit.”
Numerous families attended the private screening, and Hernández’s youngest admirers absorbed his message wholeheartedly.
Eight-year-old Stockton resident Carter Glaser conveyed his excitement, saying, “Seeing a movie about someone journeying to space is thrilling. It’s incredibly inspiring for kids to witness a space-themed movie.”
Micaela Messimore, also eight and from Stockton, remarked, “He was born here, and he went to space and he tried and he made it.”
Prior to the screening, Amazon presented Hernández with a $10,000 check destined for the Jose M. Hernández Reaching for the Stars Foundation—an organization he founded to foster enthusiasm for STEM fields among young individuals.
Mayor Kevin Lincoln of Stockton lauded Hernández’s dual impact on the city—both through the film that amplifies its prominence and his philanthropic initiatives that uplift the community. Lincoln expressed his pride, emphasizing, “This underscores the fact that Stockton produces remarkable talent—individuals who accomplish great feats while also demonstrating a deep affection for and contribution to the community.”
Further advanced screenings of “A Million Miles Away” are planned, including select UC campuses. On September 15, the film will make its global debut on Amazon Prime Video.
