Miracle

About Miracle

"Miracle" is a 2004 American sports film about the United States men's ice hockey team, led by head coach Herb Brooks, that won the gold medal in the 1980 Winter Olympics. The movie's main theme is the preparation and outcome of the semi-final game between the USA and the Soviet Union, which came to be known as the 'Miracle on Ice'. The movie goes beyond the sport to explore the socio-political context of the time, further heightening the significance of the win.

Making/ Production

Produced by Walt Disney Pictures, "Miracle" was directed by Gavin O'Connor and written by Eric Guggenheim. The film was shot in various locations in the United States and in Canada. Extensive training was provided to the actors, many of whom had professional hockey backgrounds, to recreate the 1980 game in authentic detail.

Actors

• Kurt Russell played coach Herb Brooks. Russell's portrayal brings out Brooks' complex, tough yet inspiring coaching style.
• Patricia Clarkson portrayed Patti Brooks, Herb's supportive wife, who balances her husband's ambition with family life.
• Noah Emmerich played assistant coach Craig Patrick, showcasing the essential role of a supportive and diligent assistant in a major sporting victory.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Kurt Russell wore the same style of glasses that Herb Brooks wore at the time of the 1980 Winter Olympics.
• The majority of the players who portrayed the U.S. Hockey team had experience in college or professional ice hockey.
• The last 10 minutes of the game against the Soviet Union was shot as it happened in the actual game, play-by-play.

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's score was composed by Mark Isham, who incorporated powerful orchestral motifs to enhance the drama and suspense of the games.
• Main titles: "The Team" by Trevor Rabin
• Closing credits song: "Dream On" by Aerosmith

Quotes

• "Do you believe in miracles? YES!" - Al Michaels
• "This is your time. Now go out there and take it." - Herb Brooks
• "If we play them ten times, they might win nine. But not this game." - Herb Brooks