Review of The Milagro Beanfield War (1988) by Jonathan H — 01 Sep 2007

I think it's safe to say that there are very few people who have even heard of 'The Milagro Beanfield War'. Considering its credentials, this is a bit surprising. The film boasts a strong ensemble cast that includes Ruben Blades, Sonia Braga, Melanie Griffith, John Heard, Daniel Stern, and Christopher Walken. Its rich score by Dave Grusin won an Oscar. And it was directed by the immensely popular Robert Redford. But even beyond this, it remains a charming, uplifting little fable.

The Hispanic town of Milagro, New Mexico, population 426, is dying. All the fields are arid due to water regulations, and no one can find work. The impoverished citizens spend most of their time drinking in the local cantina and throwing rocks at each other. That is, until crestfallen handyman Joe Mondragon decides to illegally divert water to irrigate his father's old beanfield. This small act of rebellion quickly grows as a powerful land developer with business interests in the region (who also holds the "right" to the water) decides to fight back. Mondragon's beanfield soon draws the attention of an assortment of colorful characters, including a feisty female mechanic, the activist editor of a small paper, an eager sociologist, a dogged lawman, the humorously detached Governor, a pig named Lupita, and an endearing old man who communes with the dead and uses food stamps to buy bullets. The nefarious developer and his cronies fight dirty - they threaten Joe, they beat him up, and eventually, our reluctant hero is forced to go on the lam. Slowly, the sleepy town of Milagro re-awakens. People talk, strange things happen, and the town's old men start arming themselves, ready for a confrontation with the corporation that threatens to destroy all they have left. And through all this, the beans keep growing.

'The Milagro Beanfield War' is an incredibly delightful and whimsical tale, and Redford strikes a number of balances that allow it to reach its fill potential. It is sweet but not saccharine, spiritual but not overbearing. Indeed, it is the film's use of magical realism (mostly in the form of an old angel who materializes to give advice and play the accordion) that is one of its strongest points. The setting is also a plus, as we are able to observe different aspects of Chicano life in the modern Southwest. But I feel that the film's true charm lies in its classic plot - the story of little people doing great things against great odds. The offbeat residents of Milagro hold our sympathy, and we cheer for them. The uplifting finale is inspiring, tender, and beautifully done. Despite its obscurity, 'The Milagro Beanfield War' serves as an entertaining and heart-warming reminder that a film doesn't need special effects and a huge budget to be worthwhile. Sometimes, all it takes is a winning story to hold an audience. And trust me, this one will make you feel good.