Miracle in Lane 2

This was a really cute family film---it shows that the underdog CAN rise to the top and win the prize. Of course, it didn't hurt to have Frankie Muniz as the star; he is a likeable and talented young actor. No wonder "Malcolm in the Middle" is such a big hit.

I am teetering between a 5 and 6 rating because this Disney channel original movie was far and away better than most of the ones that came before it, but some of the god scenes (especially at the end with the angels in wheel chairs) was kind of dumb and to me soap box racing is just kind of boring. But little Frankie Muniz is adorable and carried this movie. All the other actors are pretty decent as well. It's cool to this was based on a true story. This movie covered some heavy topics without getting too heavy. The brother dynamic was sweet though the actors were kind of obviously older than the characters ages they were portraying. Not the best movie, but it was a sweet story. I'd recommend a watch.

Franky Muniz lights up the screen in this movie. While it is a predictable plot in many ways, it is nonetheless touching. A good plot line will keep parents interested, with numerous side plotlines. All around, this film is well acted, and for the most part, avoids cheesiness and cliche (though there are a few moments). Kids and adults alike will love it.

Enjoyed the movie and the message. Didn't realize it was Malcolm's Frankie Muniz at first, but thought that he did a pretty good and convincing acting job anyway. The cast seemed to have pretty good rapport with one another, and you are never bored at all as the story progresses. A good one for the family to enjoy.

Miracle in Lane 2 works on several levels. First and most noticeable, it is a wonderful movie about overcoming obstacles, being persistent, working with mentors, etc., etc. Everything we come to expect from this genre.

It is also a good disability awareness movie, suitable for a wide audience. The movie demonstrates the way 2 groups of people typically respond to persons with disabilities; those who "get it" and those who don't.

"Miracle" reflects, in Disney's soft-edged style, some of the challenges faced by children with physical disabilities, their parents, their siblings and the larger public. It deals with some touchy subjects with sensitivity AND a dose of reality.

Based on fact? Yes. Factually correct? Well, the writers took a lot of license with the details of how the All American Soap Box Derby works. That's secondary to the story, however. Suffice it to say one won't learn much about the way AASBD operates from this flick, other than kids building and competing in gravity-powered racers. You will learn more about the issues mentioned above.

That said, there was enough factual correctness that when my stepson, a wheelchair user most of his life, was motivated by this film to compete himself, we were able to make contact with the gentleman who (still?) manufactures the hand brake used by Justin. Last I heard, it remains the only "non-standard" component permitted on any standard AASBD racer.

BTW, Not only did my stepson compete locally, he became a Vermont State Champion and competed in the 2002 World Championships in Akron. While we were there, he spent some time with the real Justin.