Watch Saint Ralph

Saint Ralph is a heartwarming, coming-of-age film with a comedic twist that follows a 14-year-old boy in Ontario, Canada in the 1950s. The protagonist, Ralph Walker, is a mischievous and troubled student who has lost his father and his mother is hospitalized with an incurable disease. He struggles to find a sense of purpose until he comes up with an ambitious plan to perform a miracle that he believes will cure his mother's illness.

Ralph is not necessarily a likeable character initially, as he is constantly causing trouble and getting into fights with his classmates. However, he is also very determined and has a certain charm that makes him a lovable protagonist as he grows and develops throughout the film. He has an unyielding curiosity and stubbornness which eventually leads him to a passion for running.

His running coach, Father Hibbert, is a former Olympic marathoner and an alcoholic, played by Campbell Scott. The relationship between Ralph and Father Hibbert is complex and adds depth to the film. Father Hibbert is initially reluctant to coach Ralph, but as he gets to know him better, he recognizes his potential and becomes invested in his journey as a runner.

The movie has a quirky and uplifting tone, which is heightened by Ralph's wild imagination. He often has surreal daydreams, which are depicted through amusing visuals and add a unique touch to the film. In one scene, Ralph imagines himself as a Roman gladiator racing towards the finish line, and in another, he imagines seeing the Virgin Mary watching him from above.

Jennifer Tilly plays Nurse Alice, Ralph's confidant and romantic interest. She is a kind and understanding character who listens to Ralph's problems and offers him support. Her presence in the movie is a comforting one and serves as a maternal figure to Ralph.

The movie is set during the time of the Boston Marathon, which is an essential aspect of the plot. Ralph decides to enter the marathon to fulfill his miracle plan and raise money for his mother's care. The training scenes are both inspiring and humorous, as Ralph attempts to build up his stamina, all while balancing his schoolwork and keeping his training a secret from the strict nuns at his school.

Overall, Saint Ralph is a charming and optimistic film with genuine heart. It's a story of perseverance, faith, and hope in the face of adversity. The acting performances are strong, especially Adam Butcher, who carries the movie with his natural talent and believable portrayal of Ralph. The movie also has an excellent soundtrack that captures the era and adds to the emotional resonance of the film.

In conclusion, Saint Ralph is a delightful film that is perfect for all ages. It's a family-friendly movie with valuable life lessons that teach us to never give up on our dreams and to have faith in the impossible. It's a captivating story that will make you laugh, cry, and ultimately leave you feeling inspired.

Saint Ralph is a 2004 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 51.