2015 did see some good Hallmark films, as well as some bad ones and plenty in between. Had a good feeling that 'A Gift of Miracles' would work, with it having one of the most appealing and relatable-sounding premises of 2015's Hallmark batch and have always admired it when Hallmark tackle mature family themes (even when they don't always work). Rachel Boston is more watchable than she isn't and it was great to see 'West Side Story's' Rita Moreno again.
'A Gift of Miracles', regardless of its imperfections, is a lovely, sweet and well meaning film on the whole and a worthy Hallmark effort. Not one of the best Hallmark films of 2015, but closer to that extreme than the worst. There is also a lot to like in 'A Gift of Miracles' and it does a nice job with its premise and relatable family themes. It was refreshing too seeing as the previous 2015 Hallmark film seen ('Just the Way You Are' with Candace Cameron Bure) didn't do anything for me.
It isn't perfect, with it being too slow to begin with and occasionally too sappy in the latter stages (even for the premise).
Did find the ending too neat and convenient in how things are resolved, which seems to be very common with Hallmark. Would have liked to have seen more chemistry between Boston and Jesse Moss, it was not non existent but it did feel too low key.
However, a lot is good. Boston is charming and heartfelt as one of her more likeable and relatable characters (something that has been very hit and miss in her career), no signs of overplaying or going through the motions. Moss is endearingly geeky and quirky without becoming neurotic. Moreno is sincere in her supporting role, and Andrew Airlie is a solid presence. The characters are interesting and easy to connect with in easy to relate to situations.
Furthermore, it t is beautifully filmed and the scenery is stunning to look at. The music is not intrusive, and didn't feel too melodramatically loud, repetitive or too constant (all of which being common with Hallmark's music), actually found it very sensitive. The direction lets the drama breathe while not allowing it to drag. The script is sincere and mature without being too melodramatic or too serious, while not sugar coating. The same goes for the gentle, charming and moving story, which is not always as fleshed out as it could have been but the good intentions and sincerity were to be admired all the way through as was the relatability of the themes.
Very nice film all in all. 7/10.
