MOVIE - MIRACLE - Review Rating $$$$$ $$$ (OUT OF 10)

STARRING -Kurt Russell (Herb Brooks), Eddie Cahill (Jim Craig), Michael Mantenuto (Jack O'Callahan), Patrick O'Brien Dempsey (Mike Eruzione), Kenneth Mitchell (Ralph Cox), Nathan West (Rob McClanahan), Noah Emmerich (Craig Patrick) & Patricia Clarkson (Mrs. Brooks).

DIRECTOR - Gavin O'Connor (Tumbleweeds)

The true story of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey team's gold medal performance.

The decade of the 70's was a tumultuous time in American history. The Vietnam War had torn the nation apart, Watergate had undermined the public's confidence in the Presidency, there were fuel shortages, high interest rates and ongoing domestic social unrest and international diplomatic disputes. But life went on and some normal activities took on greater significance than they otherwise would.

Miracle is a modern day "David vs. Goliath" story. A group of unheralded American hockey players beat their arch rivals, the Soviet National Hockey team, arguably the best dynasty in the history of the sport. An amazing accomplishment made that more memorable because of its timing. As Seabiscuit inspired a nation emerging from the shadow of the Great Depression this victory coincided with the Nation's need to demonstrate its indomitable spirit and resilience in the face of a decade of turmoil and unrest.

Miracle is not as strong a movie as Seabiscuit but it still makes for an entertaining history lesson. The use of the opening credits and the occasional news report, to set the stage for the events that unfolded, is quite effective. The decision to cast real hockey players enhances the film's credibility as well. The performance of Kurt Russell is instrumental to the film's success. He masterfully captures the spirit and motivation of the late Herb Brooks.

You don't have to be a sports fanatic to enjoy the film either. The larger message that the movie conveys, while somewhat corny, is nevertheless inspiring and uplifting. Miracle also reminds us that not all athletes "just do it" for the money.

Miracle captures the spirit of the moment and maintains your interest despite knowing the outcome. It makes for a great sport's film that the whole family can enjoy.

Running time - 135 minutes.

Alternative Reviews:

Roger Ebert's Review

Peter Travers / Rolling Stone Review

Rotten Tomatoes Reviews

Miracle Official Web Site

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