Review of Miracle (2004) by Joshua L — 10 Mar 2011
Not an ounce of rah-rah is wasted in this uplifting film re-telling of how the United States hockey team defeated the world-champion Soviet Union at the 1980 Olympics. Sure, the movie is a bit too long, and maybe tugs too hard on the heartstrings, but thank goodness for Kurt Russell as Minnesota hockey coach Herb Brooks and nails the role.
Russell, long one of our most under-appreciated actors (see his excellent turn as a corrupt cop in Dark Blue) and here he shows why, playing a coach who wants his team to loathe him. Patricia Clarkson is just as wonderful as Brooks' wife.
Might Ducks this isn't. But Miracle, directed with a keen eye for action and inspiration by Gavin O'Connor (Tumbleweeds, Pride and Glory), is something worth cheering for. He scores by casting actual athletes, a move that pays off brilliantly when the big game is recreated.
When television announcer Al Michaels asks 'Do you believe in miracles?'--you'll want to shout.
This review of Miracle (2004) was written by Joshua L on 10 Mar 2011.
Miracle has generally received very positive reviews.
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