17 Miracles (2011)

Growing up Mormon as a strong female was tough. Its not a faith of equality. For all that I liked the pseudo history of the movie.

A lot of the LDS films out there are plain bad. This one takes the biscuit. It is meant to be an uplifting, emotional story where they combine stories of two of the more infamous LDS Handcart companies and track their journey west. It was meant to showcase the faith of those who undertook the journey, and make me wonder how I can exhibit such faith in my life.Instead, it taught me the opposite about faith than we are taught about on Sundays. It also made me furious at the LDS church for their treatment of the only sensible character, Levi Savage. There is not really a point to watch this film if you aren't LDS. There is also no point watching it if you are. Pick an old classic, or just read a book. You will regret it less.If you are looking for a churchy film to watch on a Sunday evening, or at a church event, don't bother with this one. The tears you shed at the end will be for the 113 minutes you will never get back.

This film is diabolical. How has it got 7.3 as I watch it. Without giving anything away when daughter prays for mother who has lost hope and a pie arrives in a tray COME ON! I had to switch off. I thought it was miracle in a complete chance circumstance type not bible type crap. If I watched on I can imagine they would have parted a sea and fed the 5000. Disappointed. If you believe Jesus worked miracles watch this you will probably enjoy it. If you believe Jesus was a nice bloke that could not then stay clear of this film because it is very fanciful. Wasted a hour, glad I called a halt to this film YUK!

T.C. Christensen's "17 Miracles" is something of a miracle itself. An independent film telling the true story of one of the most amazing pioneer migrations stories ever is beautifully written, directed, acted, edited and photographed to say nothing about the excellent musical scoring. Produced for less than $1 million dollars it achieves what no amount of budget can necessarily buy: a spiritual honesty that pays tribute to the people who followed their faith using wooden handcarts to carry their meager supplies as they attempted to journey to the Salt Lake City valley. While members of the LDS faith will mostly be familiar with the Martin and Willie handcart trek, most will be overwhelmed at the number of challenges and miracles that are depicted in this film. One can not leave from viewing this film without having a greater respect for these faithful pioneers and a deeper reverence for our Father in Heaven. "17 Miracles" is my kind of motion picture -- one that is an experience and uplifting. Highly recommended. If you have the chance to see it in a theatre DO! If not the DVD and Blu-ray are now available thru Deseret Book Company. This disc is certainly a must to own! Addition: Just saw the film for a third time in the theatre and find myself even more impressed with it then upon the first viewing. While all of the acting is outstanding special mention should be made of Jason Wade who plays Levi Savage. This handsome young actor could be the new Robert Redford. He is a very sensitive actor who has great range and power.