There’s no question I prefer softer Christian-faith films—with their lighter themes and more open minded ideals—over extremist, Kirk Cameron-faith propaganda (where their “themes” and Christian morals are dropped on the viewer like a two-ton anvil). I praise 2014’s Heaven is for Real for its tolerant outlook on religious philosophy, in addition to its subtlety and actual touching/humorous scenes. 2016’s Miracles from Heaven is very similar in premise, yet while far from a bad film, it is a rather boring one. Some may argue a boring film is worse than a bad film, since a bad film at least triggers emotional reactions from its viewers. While an excellent point, I’d counter argue that, given the choice between sitting in a blank room for two hours versus sitting in a room while getting punched in the face for two hours, I’d prefer the former option (though neither would also be acceptable).
The problem with Miracles from Heaven is there’s a LOT of unnecessary filler scenes: an estimated 40 minutes that could be cut without severely altering the film’s plot and morals. Where Heaven is for Real gives a notable multipart outlook on God and faith, Miracles from Heaven gives a straightforward view; the extra scenes in Heaven is for Real (such as the protagonist’s visit to the psychiatrist) enhance its complexity, while the extra scenes here (such as the daughter’s chemo roommate) make the film’s easy-to-comprehend themes feel heavy-handed. There’s also the unfortunate habit where Miracles from Heaven uses obnoxious, one-dimensional jerks to make the main family’s situation look worse and/or make the mother (Jennifer Garner) look correct (even when her methods—regardless of the good intentions—become questionable). The film is generally harmless, however, and does contain some decent scenes (the ending being particularly sweet), though they are, unfortunately, drowned within a sea of tiresome filler. I can’t recommend Miracles from Heaven as a good film, I will, however, recommend seeing it over any Kirk Cameron film.
P.S. The only thing I hated about Miracles from Heaven was the youngest daughter: an incredibly loathsome character, made of the purest, unbearable saccharine dialogue. The true victim here, however, is the real life daughter, who gets to see herself portrayed as an insufferable idiot.
