A charming Canadian import by director Michael McGowan (MY DOG VINCENT), the 1950s period comedy SAINT RALPH follows earnest Catholic schoolboy Ralph (Adam Butcher) as he struggles with his teenage hormones, challenges priestly authority, and tries to achieve a miracle by winning the Boston Marathon. Facing orphanhood after his father is killed in WWII and his mother falls into a coma caused by terminal cancer, Ralph, with the help of his friend Chester, carries on life as usual by pretending that he lives with his grandparents. He regularly visits his mother in the hospital and creates a special friendship with one of her nurses (Jennifer Tilly). He tries to date an evasive classmate intent on becoming a nun, and generally causes havoc with his school priests (Campbell Scott, Gordon Pinsent). However, when Ralph comes to believe that winning the Boston Marathon would constitute a miracle that might save his mother's life, nothing can stop him.
Reminiscent of inspiring stories like BILLY ELLIOTT and WHALE RIDER, SAINT RALPH pokes gentle fun at strict Catholic school rules and provides a young hero for all generations. Underscoring the script's emotion is the score by Andrew Lockington, which features a moving version of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah." Embracing faith, religion, and humanity, SAINT RALPH is a classic family film.
Theatrical Release: August 5, 2005 (Limited)
DVD Features:
Anamorphic - 1.85
Audio:
Dolby Digital 5.1 - English
Dolby Stereo - French
Subtitles - English - Closed Captioning
Subtitles - English, French - Optional
Additional Release Material:
Audio Commentary - Michael McGowan - Director
Behind-the-Scenes - Featurette
Director of Photography
Rene Ohashi: Director of Photography
Music
Andrew Lockington: Music, SAINT RALPH (2005)
Review 1:
"The film plays out satisfyingly, with equal parts drama and humor....It's worth seeking out this bittersweet comedy with its emotionally resonant story and stellar performances."
Source: USA Today
p.4E 08/05/2005
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