The Miracle Club – followed by Q&A with Thaddeus O’Sullivan
The ICC is delighted to present this very special preview screening of the new feature film “The Miracle Club”, before it goes on UK GENERAL RELEASE. Featuring a stellar cast which includes Maggie Smith, Kathy Bates and Stephen Rea and directed by one of Ireland’s leading Film Directors, the ‘Emmy’-nominated filmmaker, Thaddeus O’Sullivan, The Miracle Club promises to bring you a really great night of heart-warming and fun filled entertainment.
“The Miracle Club”
Its Ballygar, 1968, a rough, tough and hard-edged community, just outside Dublin, where three generations of women, Lily (Maggie Smith), Eileen (Kathy Bates), and Dolly (Agnes O’Casey) dream of escaping the boredom and hum drum of their docile, domestic lives, to get a taste of freedom. So when they enter their church’s riotous talent competition and with the help of their sparkly-eyed priest, they manage to win their ticket of a life time – a trip to the French town of Lourdes – they embark on a journey, on which they pray for miracles and hope that their lives will change for ever!
Having never ever left Dublin, let alone Ireland before, the journey provides the women with the chance to let their hair down and experience their first sweet taste of freedom; however when they are joined by Chrissie, ( Laura Linney) who has just returned from living for decades in the USA, deep wounds from the past are suddenly re-opened, and bitter truths are exposed. Forced to confront one another and embrace their past, the women realise that the miracle they have all been looking for is right in front of them: in the strength of their friendships and unshakeable togetherness.
Doors 7.00pm, Starts 7.30pm
Tickets: £12
What The Press Are saying about “The Miracle Club”
“A handful of terrific actors make the pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, hoping for a miracle. Laura Linney radiates empathy and a sort of soft-spoken sincerity.” – Peter Debruge, VARIETY
“An alluring ensemble cast brings persuasive conviction to this period heartwarmer Screen Daily
“Filled with heart and humanity. It is a story of faith and forgiveness, heartbreak and healing, regret and redemption. This magnificent ensemble cast never misses a beat. Four generations of spectacular female performances. Laura Linney is at her best, holding audiences in her hand with effortless poise. Kathy Bates skillfully unveils a bitter sadness. It’s a remarkable turn. Agnes O’Casey’s heart pours off the screen. The legendary Dame Maggie Smith treats each moment with care and discovery. She is an absolute joy to watch. The Miracle Club is a quietly feminist film that honors the invisible labor of women, the complexities of motherhood, and the belief that change is possible, with or without a miracle.” – Liz Whittemore, REEL NEWS DAILY
“Bates is simply a treasure. The Miracle Club is a timeless tale that serves as a gift for audiences who simply want a good movie.”– Philana Marie Boles, MOVIE WEB
“The transcendent performances of this dream cast are alternately hilarious and heartbreaking – We get to see Kathy Bates crooning “He’s So Fine” in a church talent show, with 88-year-old Maggie Smith shimmying behind her as a backup singer. That alone, dear reader, is worth the price of admission, and then some We are reminded of Smith’s extraordinary range.”– Bill Newcott, SATURDAY EVENING POST
“A fantastic cast. A minor miracle. Check your cynicism at the door, and let these talented actors share their stories.” – Clarence Moye, AWARDSDAILY
“Anything that brings Maggie Smith, Kathy Bates and Laura Linney together for a smart and engaging movie that will lift your spirits these days is a miracle all by itself. The Miracle Club is a reason to celebrate this summer, if only for the chance to see a sterling and beloved cast. Smith, Bates and Linney are superb.”– Pete Hammond, DEADLINE