In the world of sports movies, few capture the essence of a game quite like “Miracle.” The 2004 film, which chronicles the improbable journey of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team, has long been a favorite among fans and critics alike. But what happens when you bring together a die-hard hockey enthusiast and a self-professed sports movie skeptic to discuss the film?
Enter Jim Pullen and Ocean Murff. This week, the duo dive headfirst into the heart and soul of “Miracle,” unearthing a newfound appreciation for the film’s nuanced storytelling and authentic portrayal of the sport.
For Pullen, a lifelong hockey player, the movie struck a chord on a deeply personal level. “This movie is like, I don’t know, just brought back a lot of memories, a lot of sights and sounds growing up as a child in this era of hockey,” he reminisced, citing the film’s painstaking attention to detail, right down to the vintage equipment.
But it was Murff, the hockey neophyte, who perhaps best articulated the film’s universal appeal. “You have so many other things to grab onto, not only the story of the journey of the team,” he marveled, praising the movie’s deft handling of coach Herb Brooks’ unorthodox team-building strategies and the personal journeys of players like Jim Craig and Mike Eruzione.
“Miracle” is more than just a sports movie – it’s a testament to the power of storytelling to bridge gaps and bring people together. Whether you’re a hockey fanatic or a casual observer, the film’s themes of perseverance, unity, and the triumph of the underdog are sure to leave a lasting impact.
