Review of Pocketful of Miracles (1961) by Bradley C — 19 Dec 2013

The overall plot to this movie is absurd, a New York mobster who starts doing everything he can to help his supplier of "lucky" apples, yet I love this movie. As absurd as it is, things like this can happen in real life. People do and can change and often times it is the absurd things that cause it. Watching the change that overcomes Dave as he starts down the road of doing good things even if it is for the wrong reason is marvelous.

The acting in this movie is perfect for the style. I wouldn't call it "Academy Award" winning performances but it all fits with the characters and the charm. The pacing is a bit long in parts but almost every moment is fun and worth the watch. Seeing the transformation of Annie is wonderful and watching all the "tough" characters turn into softies is so much fun.

I would say that this story is a great version of perpendicular Cinderella story. The person who really goes through the change is the Fairy Godmother, not Cinderella. I love this message of how if we put our efforts towards helping others it causes us to change, really we should all strive to be Fairy Godmothers and focus less on wanting a Fairy Godmother.

If you're in the mood for a classic movie with some feel good moments you really can't go wrong with this.

Verdict: Recommended.