Thursday, February 16, 2012

Ken Kwapis: Big Miracle

John Krasinski, Drew Barrymore, Big Miracle, Universal Pictures, 2012.


The feel-good family friendly animal movie gets a considerable boost from usually hacky helmer Ken (Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants) Kwapis. Big Miracle is a true story which occurred in 1988, and the genuine way in which Kwapis allows the proceedings to unfold is refreshing, for a film which easily could have devolved into sap.

The adroit cast is headed by John Krasinski and Drew Barrymore, both doing what they do best; exude the personas which endeared them to audiences in the first place. Ted Danson, Tim Blake Nelson, Kristen Bell, Dermot Mulroney and JoBeth Williams round out the character players.

A family of whales trapped under the ice in Alaska, its media circus and how it affects not only the small icy town but the world at large, is played out in well observed, enjoyable scenes which cater to the humanity of its audience. For a harmless trifle, this picture is sharper than most.

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