Video Review: 'Miracle'

'Miracle' (PG) Before you bask in the sun of the upcoming Olympic Games, take time to revisit one of the greatest Winter Olympics achievements ever with "Miracle," the amazing story of the 1980 gold medal-winning USA hockey team.

The story follows the hard-fought journey of Herb Brooks (Kurt Russell), who implements an unusual team strategy in an effort to defeat the Soviet Union hockey team at their own game at the Lake Placid Olympics in 1980.

Granted, most sports fans-- if not, anybody around at the time of the 1980 Games -- already knows how "Miracle" ends, but that doesn't take away from the intensity, drama and eventual euphoria that the movie brings. The exciting conclusion is only tempered by the untimely death of Brooks, who died in an auto accident last year.

What's great about "Miracle" is that it's not all "rah rah" sweetness and light. It addresses the conflicts of the rival college players on the ice and the hard-driving nature of Brooks at the team's practices; and delves headlong into turmoil the dream job causes Brooks and his wife, Patty (Patricia Clarkson).

Russell gives a memorable portrayal of Brooks (although his "Fargo"-esque "Minne-soh-tah" accent seems too thick, he sounds a lot like the coach), and the charisma he brings to the role gives the hockey legend the larger-than-life presence that he needs. Clarkson and Noah Emmerich (Brooks' assistant Craig Patrick) deliver solid performances as expected.

As for the team, director Gavin O'Connor ensures the authenticity of the game by working real-life hockey players like Patrick O'Brien Demsey (who plays Mike Eurzione) and Billy Schneider (son of 1980 USA hockey team member Buzz Schneider, who plays his father) into the cast with more established actors like Eddie Chahill (Jim Craig). Granted, the hockey players aren't as polished of actors, but certainly they bring to the film the much needed physical presence and realism that "Miracle" depends upon.

Moreover, O'Connor doesn't skimp on details on the culture and look (with haunting remnants of our past) and political climate of the era. As for the hockey scenes, they're fast-paced and thrilling.

And while nothing will ever be able to capture the excitement of the real game - the "USA" chants -- "Miracle" is an inspiring alternative -- and will no doubt give you goosebumps and make you teary-eyed. This "Miracle" will make you believe again.

DVD Features: O'Connor emotionally introduces a videotaped conversation with Russell, Brooks and others, which adds to the bittersweet feeling the movie captures (Brooks died shortly after principal photography was completed). The two-disc set also includes an ESPN roundtable discussion including Russell and real members of the USA team, production featurettes, outtakes and more. (Walt Disney Home Entertainment).