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Looking for Miracles

Looking for Miracles (1989)

Jun 03, 1989 1h 43m Family Drama TV Movie

Sixteen-year-old Ryan Delaney has won a scholarship, but it's not a full one, so he needs a summer job to pay for his university expenses. And although he's not eighteen, he can't swim, and has never been to camp, he manages to get a job as a camp couselor. But his mother makes him take his younger brother, Sullivan, with him to camp, since she can't look after him while she's working. But camp turns out to be harder than both Ryan and Sullivan thought it would be; and as they fight their battles, they learn about each other, themselves, and what they can do together.

Directed by Kevin Sullivan

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Kevin Sullivan
Writer
  • Kevin Sullivan
  • Stuart McLean
Producer
  • Kevin Sullivan

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Looking for Miracles examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Kevin Sullivan brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1989, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Looking for Miracles took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 103 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 124 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1989, when this film was released:
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Looking for Miracles shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Camp Lazlo: Where's Lazlo?, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Looking for Miracles offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Lolita and Addams Family Values explore similar territory, Looking for Miracles stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 3, 1989
  • Runtime: 1h 43m

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