Overall Thoughts: True story is well-intentioned and genuine, if not memorably executed.
Based on the true story of Casa Hogar, Blue Miracle is the latest in the inspirational true story genre, with a touch of faith-based messaging mixed in for good measure. For me personally, from its authenticity and storytelling perspective, it reminded me quite a bit of McFarland, USA. That one remains one of me and my family's favorite true stories, as it developed its' characters in ways that made them memorable, authentic and unique.
In terms of story and character execution, Blue Miracle doesn't quite deliver the same punch. The main character, Papa Omar, is given hints of development (with some clever but slightly confusing flashbacks), but little in terms of personal reflection. At the same time, aside from a wandering teen named Moco (a solid Miguel Angel Garcia), the other children aren't given enough to really stand out. However, despite the script coming up short in that department, the child actors (including Ghostwriter's Isaac Arrellanes and Coco's Anthony Gonzalez) do a good job with what they are given, and have an occasional moment of humor.
Dennis Quaid (I Can Only Imagine, The Rookie) is a welcome presence as a self-absorbed, temperamental fisherman who learns to open his heart. His character is given the greatest amount of development, and he has several emotionally-layered scenes. Meanwhile, Jimmy Gonzales and Dana-Wheeler Nicholson complement each other nicely as Omar and Tricia.
The film remains low-key and authentic with a beautiful Mexico setting. Some stunning camera shots of open water and a few other creative cinematography choices help elevate this beyond other low-budget films of its' kind in terms of aesthetics. There's a few strong editing choices as well. The film is also well-paced and doesn't overstay its' welcome at a 95-minute runtime. The true story connections at the end of the film are a nice touch also.
In the end, Blue Miracle is pretty much what you would expect. While it might be a bit too safe and unambitious in its execution, it's still a fairly engaging and inspiring movie most families can watch together.
Grade: B
Is this movie family-friendly? Blue Miracle is rated TV-PG. There's some thematic elements here, including discussion of abandoned families, poverty, and death. We see a brief scene of angry patrons engaging with armed weapons (we hear gunshots and screaming, but don't see any details). Someone nearly drowns. A couple of characters steal, and one urinates in a fisherman's coffee mug. Two characters drink in a bar, and we see one other character downing a bottle of alcohol. Occasional language includes one use each of "h***" and "p***ed" and two of "oh my g**". The subtitles mentioned one use of "g**d*** it!", but I didn't hear it. Someone tries to cheat in the tournament (though it's reprimanded). In the end, this is a decent choice for families with kids ages 7 and up.
