Customer Reviews

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey

5 star:		(24)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey is a beautiful rendition which stays true to the spirit and story of the book -- which doesn't always happen when stories are translated from one medium to another. There are a few slight differences which do not detract from the story in any way:
--- in the book, the creche belonged to the widow, and had been carved by her grandfather.
--- in the movie, it was given to Thomas by his father, who dies in the war.

Another difference is in the book, we never learn how the widow "got" that way, in the movie there is some backstory development showing the father in uniform heading off to war, etc.

What is the same is that its a story of kindness, love and miracles. Time spent with either version of this story will be time well spent.

Whereas I might not use this term so often to refer to a movie I will now in writing that this Christmas film is warm, actually in many ways: The musical score has a fullness and soul that immediately welcomes you into the story; the colors and set designs are literally "earthy" and gorgeous as the mother and boy take many walks through the forest to arrive at Mr. Toomey's home; the importance of silence (as Mr. Toomey advocates often to the boy) allows the viewer to think and feel to greater depths than your average splice and cut/edited movie.

The acting was solid, especially behind Tom Berenger in an anticipated role-departure from the likes of "Platoon" or "Sniper". He plays the grieving, not-quite-living recluse of the film's title...and to see him slowly come out of his shell behind the gentle presence and love of the mother and son is very touching, to say the least. And this brings me to my one critique of the film: the final opening up of Mr. Toomey was so dramatically quick (even the back of the DVD case shows Mr. Toomey singing in church next to the mother and son...did I miss that? I don't think so). It WOULD have been nice to see that scene as part of the re-awakening of Mr. Toomey; why wasn't that in the picture? My point is that the film beautifully depicts the depressed woodworker slowly but surely rising out of his soulful cave only to kind of burst out at the end...suddenly he's coming out of church and the mother suddenly sees him?? A suggestion: Why not have a quick clip of him perhaps shyly entering the worship service and people being surprised and warmly accepting him there? Why not a little more transition to fill out the viewing experience "with" the characters in the story? The magic of the previous 1 hour and 20 minutes came up too quick and short. To that end I was disappointed and left wanting....to be even more touched by Mr. Toomey's transformation. Alas, that did not ruin the film.

No one told me of this film, I just happened upon it while I was cruising through Amazon. What a good, good find. A probable annual Christmas tradition of viewing for years to come. Highly Recommended.

I watched this movie as soon as I got it and loved it. I collect Christmas movies and I had never heard of this one. I bought it and loved it and will share so other people can enjoy it. thanks

Looking for something a little different to warm your heart this holiday season? Tom Beringer and Jolie Richardson deliver rich performances in a lovely, although at times somber, tale. The sets and filming are artistically done creating a gauzey feel enhancing the beauty and depth of the film. Although you will no doubt catch yourself smiling a few times during certain scenes, I wouldn't call "The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey" typical lighthearted holiday fare; however, if you enjoy a little warmth, beauty, and "Silent Night" mixed in with all the "Jingle Bells", Madison Avenue and excitement of the holidays, "The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey" may be a touching, classy answer. It has been for us.

This was a wonderful story of a family that kept their priorities straight no matter the loss of family and leaving a home they loved.
The story is based on another man who lost his wife and ended up being loved and cared for by a family who lost their father and husband. No matter the situation we can still be an encouragement to others if we get beyond our pain. I highly recommend this movie for the entire family.

I was given this movie by my mother-in-law to watch over the Christmas holiday. My only regret is that I did not watch it sooner. This is a beautiful and sincere Christmas story that truly touches the heart. I highly recommend this movie with a nice cup of hot chocolate, warm Christmas cookies, and a handkerchief--you will need it!!

This hallmark-ish film was s-l-o-w and lacked a really moving story. The soundtrack was great, the scenery was beautiful. The ending was lackluster. Perhaps the book was better.

i loved this film haveing lived all most the same story luckly i had 3 uncles to steep in i was 5 when my father died i hated him for that but learned like Jonathan life can be special plus my last name is TOOMEY.The movie looked great on my new LCD what thay can do with CG is wonderfull.

Loved the movie as much as the book. Was very true to the book. I laughed and cried. It touched my heart.

THIS IS DIFFENTLY A FANTASTIC CHRISTMAS DVD THAT IS SO INSPIRATIONAL FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY. I LOVED IT SO MUCH I HAD TO WATCH IT TWO DAYS IN A ROW.