More Than a Miracle (1967) Poster

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7/10
Sophia never so beautiful!
Nazi_Fighter_David12 December 1999
When our romantic charming Prince (Omar Sharif) puts his eyes on our delicious merry heroine Isabella (Sophia Loren), he thought about the amusing dish-washing contest and decided to make her part in the competition for the would-be royal brides...

Isabella, the peasant girl, could be the fastest in the field... For her, washing dishes without breaking anyone, is very easy...

But our Cinderella fails... and is eliminated from the contest for breaking too many dishes..

Taken by surprise, the Prince is astonished and deceived... Isabella, humiliated and with all her dreams dispersed, runs away, all sad...

Brother Joseph De Copertino (Leslie French) comes to her rescue and reveals to her that she was cheated...

Feeling blessed and lucky, Isabella returns to the palace to demonstrate to her Prince that she was tricked...

If you need a sumptuous look to a fairy story, starting off as 'Once upon a time...' and you want to see pretty girls, witches and flying monks, plus a glamorous Sophia hidden in a barrel... Well, don't hesitate to see "More Than A Miracle"!
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6/10
give me my seventh dumpling
SnoopyStyle20 August 2020
Rodrigo Fernandez (Omar Sharif) is an arrogant Spanish prince occupying 17th century Italy. His mother wants him to choose from amongst seven princesses but he rather breaks horses. A flying priest gives him some flour and challenges him to eat seven dumplings. He encounters head-strong peasant Isabella Candeloro (Sophia Loren) and is intrigued by her. He gives her the flour but she only gives him back six dumplings.

I don't always like Rodrigo. Omar Sharif has plenty enough charm to play the selfish prince with some heart. The problem seeps in when the character has an angry streak and he sneaks in some brutal undeserved violence. I don't always like Rodrigo. This is a spaghetti fairy tale. I like the seven motif. I like the attempted fantasy. The chicks are adorable. I do want to know what happened to the seventh dumpling. It would be funny to have her steal it for herself. Did she run out of flour? It would be nice to know for sure. This would be a much nicer Cinderella-like story if the prince isn't so mean.
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7/10
Sexier than now?
patsyq24 August 2005
This splendid movie showed on TCM today. Altho' the Prince and the Dishwasher only kissed once or twice, the story was SO much sexier than today's movies that go all the way and show many buffed-out body parts.

And, ladies, when Omar Sharif stares at La Loren across a field with him in princely garb and those high leather boots ... that's better than six nude Ewan McGregor's! Hurry up and watch it!

My only problem with the movie was that many of the actors playing peasants (and at times, Loren) spoke with heavy Italian accents and so quickly that I could not understand all the phrases. (Movie had no captions on TCM.) It was dubbed in English but not by native English speakers, which was probably the cause of the problem.
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Muddled, but pretty film could have used just one more miracle.
Poseidon-330 August 2005
Warning: Spoilers
The first several minutes of this film consist of a syrupy song performed by Roger Miller's orchestra and Singers while blurry 60's visual effects light the screen. Remaining viewers then spy Sharif, a Spanish prince, taming a wild white stallion as his mother screams at him that it's time to get married. When he thinks he's broken the horse, he takes off riding, but soon discovers that his job wasn't fully completed. He stumbles upon a flying monk (perhaps an ancestor of Sally Field?) who gives him a sack of flour, telling him that whichever woman bakes seven dumplings out of it that Sharif is unable to fully eat, will be the correct wife for him. When Sharif finds his horse, it has been commandeered by curvy peasant Loren, who is persuaded to bake him the dumplings. What follows is a lengthy game of give-and-take, hit-and-miss and misunderstanding as this couple attempts to discover if they are in fact meant to be together. Some of it, including a notably vivid dish-washing scene, is rather captivating. Some of it, like the endless segues into various locales and with various townsfolk, is pretty dull, sometimes even annoying, as with the ancient witch (and her coven) who aligns herself with Loren. One highly remarkable scene, however, is one in which thousands of eggs are simultaneously hatched, revealing an army of little yellow chicks. This impressive scene alone makes the film worth a glance. Others may check in to see Sharif at his peak and Loren close to hers. Unfortunately, the couple's love seems to come from a mandate in the script versus any organic chemistry between the two. It remains to be seen why Loren would have such a yen for a man who would soundly strike a woman hard across the face, but maybe times were different then. Del Rio makes one of her very last appearances as Sharif's mother and adds the touch of authoritative glamour needed for the part. Many other parts are ably acted, but intrusively dubbed into English. Witch Liotti's voice is actually painful to listen to. One of the chief assets is the roaming countryside and the use of rich and authentic looking locations. There are also some eye-popping costumes displayed by a bevy of eligible princesses who long to be chosen by Sharif. It's a fractured fairy tale that may appeal to fans of the stars, but otherwise comes off as disjointed and even a little humiliating.
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5/10
Ridiculous, even for a fairly tale.
lynpalmer120 August 2020
Warning: Spoilers
A man commands a woman to lay face down in the dirt then has her sealed in a barrel for 5 days with only bread and water and then SHE FALLS IN LOVE WITH HIM! Ridiculous, even for a fairy tale. And boring. Great looking movie though and I think Sophia Loren is at her most beautiful with her hair worn this way, long and loose. Great costumes.
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8/10
Fabulous!
lola126528 April 2006
I remember watching this movie as a child and falling in love with Sophia Loren. She was beautiful, proud and more importantly, independent! When I grew up, I wanted to be her! It's taken me until 40, but now I can say I have hopefully finally gained the "Sophia Loren" attitude! No, this isn't an Academy Award winner, it's just fun! (And if you have young daughters, they'll love this fairy tale!) I also must say that although I saw Omar Sharif in many wonderful movies, I will always remember him in this one. It was a little lighter fare than his normal "leading man" role and he seemed to enjoy the banter with Loren. (Of course, what man wouldn't?) I am buying a copy of this movie for my collection and am having a girl night with my 8-year old niece and her friends very soon. You don't have to worry about nudity, language, etc. (even though Loren has been known for her racy roles.) Check it out!
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4/10
A live action cartoon, but one too violent for Saturday morning.
mark.waltz19 June 2022
Warning: Spoilers
You'd think that Sophia Loren and Omar Sharif would strike a ton of heat, but the only thing that they strike is each other. In a fractured fairy tale (only minus Edward Everett Horton's narration), that means that they are going to fall in love with each other. Annoying dubbing of the obvious Italian language film (where only the main stars are heard in English) has a cackling witch sounding like a duck on helium, and Italian teen boys with laughable voices. Sharif may be the Spanish prince Rodrigo, but he's a bit of a brute and certainly not always charming.

He encounters Loren after running away from his dominion mother (Dolores del Rio) who has chosen seven possible brides for him. Of course, they are the most vapid kind of royalty around, so he needs a temperamental peasant girl like Loren to excite and challenge him. But can such a macho prince in the 1600's really deal with such a hot tempered female such as Loren who isn't one to honor him, let obey.

This film has many magnificent segments, colorful and beautifully costumed yet it is silly in so many ways, starting with the taming of the shrew like relationship between the leads. You don't even get the pleasure of seeing a dizzy Loren after she gets out of the barrel that has rolled down a hill and through a herd of sheep. Then there is a huge pile of fermented chicken eggs that start hatching thanks to witchy poo, and of course the dishwashing sequence that I remembered fondly from my first viewing of this years ago.

Certainly a dozen or even two dozen chicks are cute, but when it's about a thousand, they become like rats. It's a very funny scene that really amused me. The overall theme is extremely silly, starting with a forgettable theme song, and the performances seem to be parodying tradition fairy tales, and not in a happily ever after sort of way. So while this is sumptuous to look at, there are elements of it that will bring on a lot of eye rolls.
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9/10
A Cool Fairy Tale
Calliegrl0130 June 2001
I thought this was a really good movie. It was romantic tale with a wonderful and hopeful happy ending. The lead characters (Sophia Loren and Omar Sharif) had great sexual chemistry. It's an adult fairy, (of course, look at the leads) and yet kids could still watch it. I gave it a 9 out 10 only because it gets just a bit boring in the middle, but the movie prevails in the ends. Especially when during the dishwashing scene.
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3/10
Where's the fun?!
planktonrules31 March 2021
"More Than a Miracle" is a Sophia Loren film that is among her more obscure....and after seeing it, I could see why. It's a fairy tale of sorts but also a very dark one as well....and not especially pleasant to watch.

The film consists of a very nasty prince (Omar Sharif) in Spain during the period of the Spanish Inquisition. He sees a monk floating in the sky and the monk tells him to look for a woman to cook him seven dumplings as she'll be the love of his life. However, as the prince goes about the countryside, he shows himself to be a real jerk....and a most unlikable one. This seriously impacts the story and when he meets Loren's character, he orders her about like she's garbage! Some romance, huh?!

With little chemistry between the pair, a lot of weird details that are distracting and a story that just drags, the film is a struggle to finish. Not a horrible film but certainly not a good one either. Unpleasant and dull.
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charming fairy tale
Kirpianuscus21 March 2016
amusing. nice. mixture of fairy tale, eroticism and humor. one of slices from a period of cinema who suggest more than present, who knows the right tools of seduction, who use the actors more for atmosphere . Sophia Loren in a wild role who gives new nuances to the old Cinderella. Omar Shariff as a not ordinary Prince Charming. and a lot of challenges. a film who is useful for its special flavor. because it is not a blockbuster, it is not surprising but has the perfect dose of charm for seduce and remind the sparkles of a world for who the film was more than entertainment. an easy film. comfortable. may best choice for nostalgics. but , first, a show who remands importance of small things who make the beauty of life.
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2/10
Didn't age well
taybaudelaire17 September 2022
It is just absolutely disgusting and unbearable to watch Sophia Loren get abused so many times onscreen. Even from a movie released in 1967, it is so violent against women. Her brilliant talent and wit are overshadowed by such a terrible story is and how sadistic the direction is. The slaps, pushes and overall violent behavior is dismissed and not justified on the pathetic attemp at a "fairytale". Literally, so bad. To properly enjoy the actress's craft I would recommend: A scandal in Sorrento or The sign of Venus. "C'era una volta" its a horrible experience and not justified when you look at "Barefoot in the park" (released on the same year)
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8/10
enchanting take on Cinderella story
weezeralfalfa7 October 2007
My favorite Sophia Loren film, sprinkled with occasional medieval magic and fantasy. I think the best of various modern takes on the classic Cinderella fairy tale. Sophia and Omar were never more handsome and sexy than in this one. But, I can't believe that two such proud and strong-willed people could last long as a pair. Yes, they would respect each other for these qualities, but there would be frequent incidents that would bring out their temper and stubbornness and make for a very volatile relationship, similar to what we saw in the film....Famous Mexican actress Dolores Del Rio, now in her 60s, is the queen mother, in one of her last film roles. Unfortunately, I could not find a commercial source of this film on the internet at present, although I previously obtained a DVD copy.
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5/10
Strange movie, worth watching for Sophia Loren
larrywest42-610-6189579 October 2022
It has a mix of witchcraft and some Catholic-pagan magic, for comedic effect... and I guess a MacGuffin.

The theme music is perhaps the worst thing about the film - unbearable schmaltz.

It's interesting to watch Sophia Loren, as usual, but there's absolutely no clue given why her character would fall in love with Omar Sharif 's character, who is abusive when he's not being manipulative.

I know: times change. 500 years ago, she'd not have many choices, but *audiences* even 55 years ago would appreciate being thrown a bone: some tender moment or one spark of good in Sharif's character would lend some credibility.

I guess the YouTube "Pitch Meeting" channel has put it best: they're in love because they're the romantic leads - IOW, so the movie can happen.

And Dolores del Rio's talent was wasted here.
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10/10
a lost classic
vc191430 November 2005
Creepy witches in the bush , evil scary Princesses , Flying Monks, Sofia Loren in a barrel, dish washing competitions and a cast of a thousand chickens. Whats not to like . This is such a way out bizarre take on the fairy princess story it really should be held aloft and worshiped. And for all you sickos Omar Sharif drinks a cup of urine.Strangely enough its a favorite of my whole family.In the early 80's this movie came on every school holidays and then it vanished . It was so strange I almost thought I'd dreamed it, until it resurfaced on TCM. I was quite surprised how well it held up . Like most films watched when your a child the ideas distort, but its just as I remember , the princesses are still as creepy as ever, and the girl still gets the guy . Pleases MGM release it on DVD ya gotta love it
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nice fairy tale
Vincentiu15 February 2014
it is not a blockbuster or an art film. it is not the best film of lead actors filmography. but it is romantic, amusing, funny , nice, ironic. a fairy tale from fairy tale old fashion books. and that is all. the eroticism of Sophia Loren - model for feminist tendency -, the charm of Omar Shariff ,a new meeting with legendary Dolores del Rio or presence of an original Catholic saint are perfect pillars for nostalgic memories and pure delight discovering an easy film about prediction, spell, love and adventures, choices, adventures and victory of truth. confuse in few parts, it is far to be serious. because it has all seduction of childhood and youth seduction. and because it is work of a smart, inspired team who gives to a little joke all force of a great movie.
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10/10
Sophia Loren
Anasthepsychic11 September 2012
I wish everyone would watch this movie, there is so much magic between the 2 of them making this film, love it!!! Can someone tell me how I could purchase this movie, please!! This is a film that used the most beautiful locations, costumes and makeup artist ! The close ups of her eyes are so beautiful and pure at the same time! They both had so much energy and passion that was not fake or staged, they both where not fighting for the leads or there egos where not clashing. This movie could not be redone unless it was filmed with the forgien actors with lovely accents! The magic that was used with the older ladies and the spell are true ( evil eyes ) and love spells are still used in Europe and the superstition that surrounds villages and old school thinking.
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10/10
A Truly Magical Film
Boop4ever22 December 2009
This movie is so highly underrated, it features two larger than life stars, Sophia Loren and Omar Sharif, at their best in a charming fairy tale story. Sophia never looked more beautiful on screen, this movie reveals the zenith of her beauty; and it goes more deeper than just beautiful people, the leads bring life to their characters with unparalleled charm. The magnetism of the two stars and the charming "Cinderella" story are further enhanced by a truly magical score by Piero Piccioni and a lovely title song by Roger Williams. This movie should get a major DVD restoration, it is one of the most charming and magical movies ever made.
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Wonderful fantasy w/2 beautiful people!
vvgoff22 December 2001
This fantasy is complete with a gorgeous prince, a beautiful woman, witches with cauldrons and paper moons hanging in the sky. The story is simple but very effectively showcases Omar Sharif and Sophia Loren. A lovely way to pass a couple of hours. Some scenes are so memorable I still recalled them several years after first seeing the film in 1967.

A must for my collection. Definitely not heavy going; light, fun, and great for the whole family.
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9/10
More Than A Miracle "is Magic"
garyzahnow-7306119 October 2022
More Than A Miracle is about a beautiful pheasant girl who wants to believe someone could love her, but shes a bit leery, and Omar Sharif is the handsome pursuing Prince. Watch this and remember it's a fantastic fantasy, a classic movie. So watch with the expectations of seeing a gorgeous woman (wonderful Sophia Loren, screen goddess), and btw: It's campy, fun, and full of cute off beat characters that add a lot of humor! Cinderella Italian Style, family friendly.

I've watched this movie more than a dozen times, it keeps on getting better, I highly recommend it (9 stars, because it's that good.
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Beautiful fairy tale!
bobbyc91213 July 2001
I only saw the last half hour of this movie on the Turner Classic Movie (TCM) channel on cable one early morning last month and incidentally, was the climax of the movie. I was immediately pulled by the beauty of Sophia Loren as she competes with the other princesses in the dishwashing contest. That scene alone is a classic! I've never seen quite like it before. Too bad the movie is not available on VHS or DVD because I sure would love to own this one. Considering that I am not familiar of Sophia Loren and her movies (she peaked before my time), it is amazing to see how ravishing she looked! She joins the ranks of Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe, for me, as the most beautiful women on the silver screen.
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A glitch in an otherwise exceptional career
insomnia14 October 2012
As an admirer of the Italian neo-realist film director Francesco Rosi, I was delighted when a friend mentioned that he'd obtained a copy of Rosi's long forgotten film, "More Than A Miracle." Released in 1967, it only lasted for a couple of weeks (which explains why I missed seeing it back then), before quickly disappearing from sight. Now, forty-five years later, I finally sat down to watch it. I knew that "More Than A Miracle" was a fairy tale set in 17th. Century Spain. And that it starred Omar Sharif as Prince Ramon and Sophia Loren as the peasant girl, Isabella who the Prince falls in love with. I'm not a huge fan of fairy tales. However, as this was a Francesco Rosi film, I figured it would be a cut above films tackling similar subject matter. Prince Ramon has refused to choose a bride from the seven marriageable princesses whom his mother has selected as most deserving of becoming his wife. Out on his horse he comes across a monastery, and meets friar Brother Joseph who amuses the local children by leaping into the air and flying about the countryside. The friar presents the Prince with a donkey and a bag of flour and instructs him to search for a woman who will make him seven dumplings. Despite trying to remain 'engaged' with the film, I soon found myself checking how long still had to run. Seeing a peasant girl picking vegetables, he orders her to make seven dumplings from the bag of flour he gives her. Which she dutifully does, but overcome by hunger, she eats the seventh dumpling. To punish her for her disobedience, the Prince feigns death and then disappears. While I understood that it was after all just a fairy tale, my attention was beginning to wander. I must have dozed off, as I was woken up by a sharp poke in the ribs from my wife. On the TV, Isabella was being rescued from a wooden barrel by a group of street urchins. By then, Francesco Rosi or no Francesco Rosi, I'd had enough and went to bed. Next morning, my wife insisted on telling me how it all ended. Apparently, Isabella ended up marrying the Prince and they both lived happily ever after. Born in 1922, Francesco Rosi directed some of the finest neo-realist films to come out of Italy. Such classics as "Hands Over The City", Salvatore Guiliano", "Moment of Truth" and "The Mattei Affair" Those alone elevate him to the Pantheon of Italian film directors. To me, "More Than A Miracle" was just a "glitch" and in no way detracts from his reputation as a great film director.
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would love to see this on DVD
marsenault1311 May 2007
oh my gosh, I would love it this got released on DVD. I haven't seen it in SOOOO long, and just adore it ! maybe a Sophia or Omar collection , with this one included ? I would certainly buy a collection. I would be at the front of the line for it, definitely ! ( pretty please?) It's a nice, clean, family-suitable movie for those of you that haven't seen it yet. Lots of fun, romance, kind of witchy-fantasy like. Sophia is beautiful, as always. Omar Sharif is handsome, as always. It hasn't been on television in a long time, either. I've been keeping watch, hoping to catch it.

I would greatly appreciate a heads-up if anyone locates it for sale. Maybe I can check amazon italia, see if they have it in THAT language LOL.

A great movie, all around. Keep an eye out for it, you'll enjoy.
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