hdavis-29
Being a non-Catholic and an atheist, I was wary of this film. I needn't have been. The church and its trappings are just a backdrop to a powerful and haunting story of human relationships. Although the idea of debunking miracles is an engaging backstory, this film is really character-driven. Ed Harris and Ann Heche are spectacular, and so are many of the supporting cast. The final scene and the enigma of the "third miracle" is just part of what makes this film so special. It's also nice to see that the F/X budget was kept to a minimum although the potential was there to overwhelm the acting. If you need car chases, spinning heads and projectile vomiting, this isn't the film for you. But if you can make do with 3-dimensional characters, lots of tension and an intriguing premise, this film will more than satisfy you. The only caution would be: Catholics beware. The Church comes across as far from infallible.
shark-43
This film is amazingly crafted, well-acted and thought provoking. Ed Harris gives one of his best performances (in fact, I strongly believe he deserved an Oscar nomination for THIS and not the overrated Pollock). Anne Heche delivers a strong, three-dimensional performance on a character that is hard to play. The flashbacks are beautifully shot and this film really brings up issues about faith, love and forgiveness. If you are a fan of Ed Harris, seek out this film.
Eugene
Bottom line: this is a "crisis of faith" story. The main character (Ed Harris) is a priest who has doubts, but wants to believe. He has already successfully debunked one candidate for sainthood; now his superiors ask him to investigate another. Along the way, he is sexually tempted by the saint-candidate's daughter (Ann Heche), and then opposed by a brilliant but embittered German arch-bishop. There's no sex, violence, sci-fi, or spectacular special effects in this one, folks. Just plain old good acting by the leads and supporting characters, excellent and evocative photography, and a first-rate musical score that adds to the overall enjoyment of the film. The script does have its flaws, which prevent "The Third Miracle" from being absolutely brilliant, but I was disappointed when the movie ended: I wanted more! Would that the absorbing story and its details continue: Is the candidate ever granted sainthood? Does the arch-bishop change his attitude publicly? And whose baby IS that? But these and other theological issues are what you will ponder and debate after the credits are over. And that's what makes this a worthwhile film.
fonehome
This movie is intriguing for those of us who enjoy delving into the spiritual world with a back-story involving love. The need to have proof to revitalize faith lost is a common dilemma for most of us. Frank Moore, a disillusioned priest, is on a mission to prove something to himself as he investigates a marble statue crying tears of blood in the courtyard of a convent. Ed Harris does a great job portraying a down and out Catholic priest who is uncertain and wavering in his deep seeded religious values and beliefs as he investigates consideration for the sainthood of Helen O'Regan. Frank is attracted to Helen's daughter, Roxanne (Anne Heche), which further complicates or enhanced his life, depending on your point of view. I found the glimpse into the hierarchy of Catholicism enlightening, as well. If you enjoy a spiritual quest for answers to prove the unseen, with a dash of love intertwined, you will enjoy the movie. I had a different idea for the ending but other than that, I enjoyed the movie and recommend it to others.
AD
