The Miracle Club
Three close friends who have never left the outskirts of Dublin (much less Ireland) get the journey of a lifetime — a visit to Lourdes, the picturesque French town and place of miracles.
- Released:
- Runtime: 91 minutes
- Genre: Comedy
- Stars: Kathy Bates, Laura Linney, Stephen Rea, Agnes O'Casey, Shauna Higgins, Niall Buggy, Maggie Smith
- Director: Thaddeus O'Sullivan
Comments
- brentsbulletinboard - 5 May 2024
Delightful and Insightful, If a Bit Schmaltzy at Times
When circumstances in our lives grow burdensome, many of us hope for a miracle. In some cases, that aspiration is looked upon and anticipated as a literal possibility, one that can be banked on if certain steps are taken. For many of the world's Roman Catholics, that means making a pilgrimage to the holy shrine at Lourdes, France, site of a believed visitation by the Virgin Mary in 1858. And, in 1967, for the anguished residents of a small Irish town, that's just what they undertake in hopes of seeing their problems miraculously vanish. That premise provides the basis for director Thaddeus O'Sullivan's latest feature offering, which tells the story of three generations of women who make the journey to see their trials and tribulations lifted, some of which are physical, others of which are emotional and nearly all of which are familial or relationship-oriented. This delightful and touching comedy-drama is part road trip tale, part "buddy" film (even if that term doesn't always fit), and part saga of reconciliation, redemption and rebirth. It poignantly explores the process of making our own miracles rather than relying on outside influences, as well as learning and understanding the true meaning of faith and forgiveness. Admittedly, the film takes its time getting started (and perhaps a tad too long at that), and some of its story threads come across as somewhat schmaltzy, predictable and overly "tidy." However, it has a definite edge to it, too, especially in its incisively biting humor, pointedly and expertly delivered through the superb performances of its principal cast members, most notably Maggie Smith, Kathy Bates, Laura Linney and Stephen Rea. Some may look upon "The Miracle Club" as something of a lightweight offering, but its heart and intents are decidedly in the right place, making for a generally enjoyable watch, particularly as a piece of family fare. Cynics may find much to criticize here, but I believe that's patently unfair, considering the sincerity of its messages and earnestness of their delivery. So, in light of that, give this one a fair shake - you just mind find a few miracles of your own come from it. - robertcairnduff-56748 - 31 March 2024
Have faith.
There are times when a film is mainly judged by its impact on the viewer. Did I laugh? Cry? Got spooked? Thrilled? And that's fine. It's why we enjoy immersing ourselves. At other times, we're more dispassionate and we are observers, rather than participants caught up in the flow. At one extreme are cold documentaries, at the other film-makers use all the tricks to manipulate the viewer - the kinds taught with much enthusiasm in schools. Of course many, many presentations mix and match. There are documentaries which make us cry because the maker wants us to cry. There are blockbuster Hollywood films which make us think "The Miracle" gets such a high mark from me because it does what it sets out to do. It is a worthwhile story, and it's well told. Technically it's without fault, with subtle acting. It is heart warming without being mawkish. This film is not a waste of time, and it might just add to your life. - susanmnorth - 17 December 2023
Masterful performances all around.
This film is about the repercussions of life choices made both decades ago and in the present. The brilliant capture of life in this small Irish village had me smiling (having visited small villages in Ireland many times). Family relationships, friendships and the long suffering agony that comes from holding on to grief and guilt is at the core of this film. To see Cathy Bates, Maggie Smith and Laura Linney together is a master class in the art of storytelling. The subtle dropping of past life circumstances kept me intrigued as truths are finally exposed. The supporting cast are all fabulous - Agnes O'Casey is brilliant as Dolly. I will watch this a second time because I love the way this story unfolded.
