Miracles is a unique television experience in the same vane as X-Files but with a religious rather then an alien spin. Many seem to blame this series short network run (6-episodes) on its misplacement and movement within ABC’s schedule, but there is also talk of the War in Iraq possible having something to do with it. As we all know… timing is everything. This set adds seven episodes to the six that originally aired on ABC… giving us all a chance to see the full 13 episodes that were filmed.
< ...>So what is this show all about? Here is a brief synopsis from Shout Factory… “Paul Callan (Skeet Ulrich) is an investigator of modern miracles. While consistently disappointing hopeful believers by finding simple explanations for “miraculous phenomena,” Paul finds his own faith sorely tested. Then something happens to reignite his passion for discovery and he joins a team that works to uncover the unexplained.”
Video
The originally broadcasted 1.33:1 full frame transfers provided on this set look pretty good. The show is shot to be somewhat edgy-looking, with dull images and some grainy footage. The overall feel for the show holds true to its intended vision, with clean transfers, and little-to-no unintended image flaws. There are some noticeable compression artifacts, but nothing too disturbing.
Audio
The Dolby Digital 5.1 audio track included on this set is pretty good as well. The dialog was crisp and well positioned, and the front channels fill the soundstage adequately. The surrounds were used sparingly for the score and effects; it would have been nice to hear some dedicated rear sound effects though. I have heard much better TV releases on DVD… but this set still does sound good. A Dolby Digital 2.0 audio track is also included.
Special Features
There are a nice collection of extras included in this set. First up are six episode specific Audio Commentaries by Creator Richard Hatem (feauring some of the producers and writers). These commentaries can be heard on “The Ferguson Syndrome,” “The Friendly Skies,” “The Battle at Shadow Ridge,” “Mother’s Daughter,” “The Ghost” & “Paul Is Dead”. Next up are five Deleted Scenes with intros by Richard Hatem; all of which are good, and it is interesting to learn why they were cut. The biggest extra included is a 30-minute featurette entitled “The Making of Miracles”. This is a very good extra that features an interview with Hatem; you will learn a lot from this featurette. Lastly, you will find a short (1:20) Series Promo for Miracles.
Final Thoughts
This series is much better than its 6-episode network lifespan would indicate. The Complete Series DVD set is a nice find. With good audio, video, and extras, this show will hopefully find a more sought after life on DVD then it did on TV.
Special Features List
- 6 Episode Specific Audio Commentaries
- 5 Deleted Scenes
- Interview with Series Creator
- Series Promo
