Wuchak
RELEASED IN 2005 and directed by James Intveld, "Miracle at Sage Creek" (aka "Christmas Miracle at Sage Creek") is a Western about two families in 1888 Wyoming who overcome bitterness, hatred, prejudice, doubt and death during Christmas. MAIN CAST: David Carradine, Wes Studi, Sarah Aldrich, Daniel Quinn, Irene Bedard & Tim Abell.The problem some viewers have with this Western is that the events take place near Cheyenne in southeastern Wyoming around Christmas time, but it was shot in southeastern Arizona outside Tucson where there's desert, cacti and no snow. For comparison, the wintery scenes of "The Hateful Eight" (2015) were shot 250 miles FURTHER SOUTH from Cheyenne near Telluride, Colorado.Whereas this is a glaring problem for "Miracle at Sage Creek," particularly for people who care about geographical details, the obvious reason the producers shot the movie in southeastern Arizona was to save money. After all, there are ready-made movie sets near Tucson, like Old Tucson and Gammon's Gulch Movie Set, but generally not in the Cheyenne area. The only way I could overlook this issue was to imagine the events taking place in southern Arizona. Really, I have no idea why they didn't just tweak the story so that it takes place there. Another thing to consider is that Westerns, particularly older ones, are notorious for being shot in places far from where they propose to take place. A good example are the many ones that take place in Texas, but were conveniently shot in Arizona or California. With this and the above in mind, perhaps we can have mercy on "Miracle at Sage Creek."Overlooking that transgression, this is a decent inspirational Western focusing on drama rather than conventional Western action, although there some of that (shootouts). And, despite the error in locations, the settings are magnificent (they're just not anything close to southeastern Wyoming). Moreover, both Carradine and Studi are stalwart in their roles while the others listed above offer capable support. What I appreciate most, beyond the picturesque scenery, is the palpable tone of reverence, which is helped via the venerable score by James Intveld & Michael Turner.While this is a "feel good" movie with one predictable element at the very end, it addresses several heavy topics, like prejudice, injustice, bitterness, hatred, life-or-death situations, confrontation, unexpected violence, the humbling need for a miracle, the power of simple faith ("heathen" or not), positive confession and the beauty of a change of heart.THE FILM RUNS 90 minutes and was shot in southeastern Arizona (Benson, Mescal, Old Tucson, Douglas & Gammons Gulch). WRITER: Thadd Turner. GRADE: B
Federico-5
Miracle at Sage Creek is a great film! Writer/producer, Thadd Turner and director, James Intveld's attention to period detail is remarkable. This western is set during the 1880's in Wyoming. The filmmaker's give equal time to Native American and White characters. This is truly a family film that creates full and authentic characters that are dealing with overcoming hardship and tragedy. The ensemble cast led by David Carradine and Tim Abell give true and convincing performances. Buck Taylor is a standout as "Buckskin Charlie". The film deals with issues such as faith, pride, acceptance and redemption in a realistic and un-preachy manner, which is refreshing. The film suggests that we are all connected whether you believe in the "Great Spirit" as the Native American played by Wes Studi does or you are a member of the Christian faith. This is a great movie to show your kids.
PrairieCal
From reading previous comments it seems as though every relative, friend, and casual acquaintance of anyone even remotely connected with this movie has pulled out every superlative in the book to recommend it.In actual fact this is a slow, plodding, uneventful film without out a single character to identify with. It has too many characters -- none of which have really been developed sufficiently for us to care about any of them -- too many stories going on at the same time, and too many clichés. Add to this continual references to God and prayer and one gets the feeling we're being not so subtly preached to.We'd all like to see clean and wholesome family oriented movies but that doesn't mean we'll settle for substandard fare.A fine cast is totally wasted here. Rent this film before you consider buying it. I'm betting you won't put out money to own it.
lovestravel2
I was particularly impressed with the story and the authenticity of the film. David Carridine was superb and I really liked the little boy who was cured by his grandfather. Wes Studi did a fantastic job. This is a great family film. I have children at home and it is really hard to find movies the whole family can enjoy together. The scenery in the movie was spectacular. The music was very appropriate as well. All in all, I would recommend this movie to all my friends and family. The story had so much to say about families and how important it is to stay together. Change is a part of life and we must learn to accept it. At the same time, however, we must respect the old ways as well. I believe this is the strong message in the film. I hope the producer of this film makes more like it. I will certainly like to see them. Thanks.
