We hit a moose

Rating: 8/10 (8 February 2004)

Greetings again from the darkness. So many sports movies fail because the sport action is unrealistic or is simply a series of close-ups. "Miracle" works on so many levels, but the biggest surprise is the quality of the hockey action. Many real hockey players were used in order to maintain the realism of the practices and games, and the young men are also wonderfully effective as characters within the film. The key roles of Eruzione and Craig were perfectly captured and I dare you to guess which has an acting background! Remarkably, this film works also from a historical basis and as a personal interest story AND, maybe most effectively, as a biographical sketch of the late Herb Brooks. I have been a Kurt Russell fan for years, but have always ripped him for his selection of roles. With a few exceptions ("Backdraft" "Tombstone" are a couple) his choices have prevented him from reaching the same level as a Mel Gibson. Somehow even Kevin Costner has had had greater box office success. What a joke. Russell appeals to men and women, is very charismatic on screen and is more athletic than most movie stars. Too bad he hasn't had better judgement all these years. The good news is, Russell BECOMES Herb Brooks in "Miracle". I forgot it was Russell and watched as if this was all happening for the first time! I do hope a year from now, he is remembered for an Oscar nomination. When you see this, please note what a terrific actress Patricia Clarkson is ("The Station Agent" "Pieces of April") She is so subtle in her mannerisms, yet so expressive. Just a joy to watch. So go see this one a couple of times ... it will leave you filled with emotion as you catch a glimpse of one of the biggest moments in U.S. history. If you think that is an overstatement, you are too young to remember!