Faith-based films just keep getting better and better, and I’m so glad to see the Miracles from Heaven movie continue this trend. So many resources go into films of opposite values that it’s nice for real, professional talent and effort to be dedicated to a film that, although it’s not for everyone, will satisfy and inspire its intended audience, which is a rather large and supportive segment of the population. The fact that it’s based on a documented true story gives it even more impact.

Many people have asked me, “What’s Jennifer Garner doing in a ‘Christian’ film? Did she get religion when she started having marital problems?” Those types of questions puzzle me. No one asks if an actor has converted to satanism if they star in a horror film. It’s not a question of personal belief, but belief in the ability to do the role justice, and Garner is absolutely perfect in the Miracles from Heaven movie, as an extremely dedicated mom, fruitlessly trying to help her daughter with a severe, painful and near fatal intestinal disorder.

I would be remiss, however, if I gave Garner all the credit. Little Kylie Rogers, who plays Anna Beam, the long suffering child, is a real talent. She is able to wring out tears from the most committed curmudgeon–and without obvious manipulation. This is no small accomplishment. Both young Rogers, and director Patricia Riggen (Under the Same Moon) handle this with just the right touch.

The Miracles from Heaven movie tells the story of a country family in Texas that relies on the support of their congregation nearby and the desperate family they form in faraway Boston, where daughter Anna is required to go for treatment. Queen Latifah makes a brief but meaningful appearance as a good Samaritan who makes big difference. Despite everyone’s best efforts, there seems to be no hope for Anna, who, after much treatment and expense, is sent home to suffer. A freak accident sends Anna through the dark tunnel and towards the heavenly light, and there are first class special effects for her celestial visit.

And there are plenty of everyday miracles along the way too, nicely tied together in the end, sending the message that sometimes we make the miracles ourselves. You walk out not only feeling good, but committed to doing good.  Have you noticed that most of the Oscar nominated films leave you feeling disturbed and agitated?

So my hat is off to the Miracles from Heaven movie. May it trend at the box office and trend among filmmakers alike.

1 Hour 49 Minutes

Rated PG

Get times and tickets at Fandango.com.

MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN Movie Review — Gives You Faith in Faith Based Films