It has some interesting stuff, but it’s not one I strongly endorse.
Miraculum is a very confusing film. It sure helps to know that it’s arranged out of sequence—something I only realized partway through the movie. If you care, this is also called a non-linear narrative. This can be an interesting way to make a film, but frankly I’ve seen so many films made this way recently that I am a bit bored with the practice. It was very creative some time ago, but now it’s almost like a cliché. Directors like Christopher Nolan, Charlie Kaufman and Steven Soderbergh (among others) have used it quite a bit recently. I like the style but wish it was used more sparingly, as I watch so many films that I often feel a sense of déjà vu or sameness.
- Miraculum
- Directed by
Daniel Grou - Cast
Robin Aubert, Marilyn Castonguay, Violette Chauveau - Release Date
Out Now - Martin’s Grade: C+
The film has many different plots about very disparate characters. How all these relate together is something the viewer naturally tries to grasp but which isn’t answerable very quickly. The main story is about a devote Jehovah’s Witness and her fiancé. Their belief is that you cannot rely on medicine for illnesses but faith. In particular, they are not allowed blood transfusions. This is sorely tested by two different situations that arise during the course of the film. Additionally, there is a plot about a drug mule, an elderly couple who are having an affair as well as a compulsive gambler who is trying to win back his money.
Of the plots, the one with the Jehovah’s Witnesses is the most interesting—though also a bit confusing as the woman is a nurse! I was baffled that a person who would not use lifesaving technology on themselves would work as a nurse. I wonder how common that is. Regardless of the possible dichotomy, it brought up some interesting points about faith—particularly when a person not giving blood might result in the death of another.
Do not get the impression that this is a religious film only for religious people, however. If anything, it might be interpreted a bit as anti-religious considering the final voiceover you hear a man opine that if a plane crashes, it proves that there is no God. But, regardless of your beliefs, it is mildly interesting and challenging—bringing up some great dilemmas as well as introducing interesting characters. Overall, the film had really nice acting and music. But, the film was slow and confusing at times—making it only a movie that I mildly recommend you see.
Review by Lead Entertainment Writer & Film Critic, Martin Hafer
