Miracle at Moreaux

Rating:
Summary: A heartwarming, thought provoking family film!
Review: As a collector of WWII genre movies, I stumbled across this DVD and I added it to my collection. It was a positive addition, and is a short, but entertaining and thought provoking work. There are no battles and only one relatively short episode of violence in the film. To tell much more about that would compromise the plot for potential viewers, so suffice it to say, the film doesn't depend on violence, sex or profanity to sell it. How refreshing! Loretta Swit (Hot Lips on TVs M*A*S*H) was outstanding as a compassionate and loving nun caring for French children consigned to her care to protect them from the consequences of the war and the Nazi occupation of France. Swit is the only big name star in the film, that I recognized anyway, but the rest of the cast was excellent.

Four Jewish children, attempting to escape the Nazi occupation France by going to Spain, wander rather haplessly into her sanctuary and the story surrounds their short stay and their relationship to the other residents in the home. The differences in ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds of the various children, along with the attempted escape to Spain, comprise the basis of the plot. These differences, coupled with the ever watchful eye of Nazi officials, including one zealous SS Major, make for some interesting moments. There are some very poignant moments also, including some surprising kindnesses shown the children by a sympathetic Nazi soldier. To say the least, the film may bring a tear to your eye before it is over.

The movie is less than a full hour long, but there is a lot of story crammed into that short period. This is a little known and lesser acclaimed work, but it is well worth seeing. If your not interested in owning it, at least try to rent it, although finding it to rent may be difficult. Either way it's well worth your time.

Rating:
Summary: Great film for all, especially during Hannukah and Christmas
Review: Heart-warming tale of a French Catholic school who, with the help of their teacher, Sr. Gabriella (Loretta Swit), harbors Jewish children during World War II. Story takes place during Hannukah.

Rating:
Summary: One of My Holiday Favorites
Review: I first saw this movie in high school, and I've never forgotten it. Three Jewish children flee the Nazis and must take refuge at a small Catholic school in France. Strong performances from Loretta Swit and the rest of the cast. A wonderful message about tolerance. Viewers of all faiths will appreciate the beauty of the miracle of Hanuukah. Truly inspiring.

Rating:
Summary: A fine film that promotes cultural diversity and sensitivity
Review: This film, set in World War II France, deals with a group of Christian students who have the reality of the Holocaust thrust upon them when three Jewish children appear at their boarding school in need of a haven from the Nazis. The nun who runs the school must deal with the danger of the situation while the children must confront their won prejudice towards Jews. The plot is fast paced enough to hold the interest of Jr. High students while never sacrificing the deeper issues of cultural diversity and the Holocaust. While originally made for T.V., this film provides a great teaching tool for students learning about World War II, prejudice, and decision making in the fact of peer pressure and danger. While some scenes are intense, there is nothing objectionable for Jr. High age students.