What you see is what you get.

Rating: Null/10 (16 February 2004)

This is a pretty good inspirational reality movie. I think it compares to something like Apollo 13 more than some other sports movies. Russell is great as a low-key, but highly motivated Herb Brooks.
I thought the movie was best in the early and middle going. Ironically, the actual "Miracle game" had very confused game action. The earlier games seemed clearer.
Another bigger disappointment was the new play-by-play by Al Michaels. Michaels is actually a pretty good hockey PBP guy because he uses the range in his voice to convey intensity and action. During the live call of the 1980 game (back in 1980) Michael's voice tone said as much as his choice of words. But in the movie, he's so monotone and unenthusiastic that it's a let down. It would have been better to use clips from the ABC broadcast in 1980.
Anyway, Miracle is a good values movie for the whole family. The kids won't appreciate the kind of US that existed in the late 70's. They also won't get the elevation of the players from rival individuals to a united, dedicated team. (The underlying message to the citizens of the country is a little too subtly presented to stick.) But some day your kids will understand.