I Believe In Miracles

I Believe In Miracles is a riveting sports documentary released in 2015. Directed by Jonny Owen, this feature film tells the inspirational true story of Brian Clough, Peter Taylor, and Jimmy Gordon. Through a series of interviews and archival footage, the movie offers a stunning portrayal of one of the greatest achievements in British football history.

The film primarily taps into the golden period of Nottingham Forest Football Club under the influence of charismatic manager Brian Clough and his assistant, Peter Taylor, along with Jimmy Gordon, the club's long-standing trainer. The trio and their squad were behind a miraculous rise in the annals of British football, propelling the Nottingham Forest from Second Division mediocrity to become champions of England and then Europe in the space of just five seasons.

Brian Clough, a central figure in the tale, was well-renowned for his unorthodox style, sharp wit, and gift for motivation. Clough, aided by his astute assistant Peter Taylor, used unconventional methods to propel the team towards unprecedented success. It was their firm belief in their squad and their tactical nous that laid the foundation for what would soon become one of the most astounding stories in football history.

In contrast to Clough was Peter Taylor, his right-hand man, an impressive scout whose excellent player knowledge significantly enhanced the team’s abilities. Together, they were an indomitable force. Jimmy Gordon, the team’s physiotherapist, also contributed to this pivotal period in Nottingham Forest's history. He helped to ensure the players were in peak physical condition, enabling them to remain competitive even against the most formidable opponents.

Director Jonny Owen ingeniously brings this narrative to life, making use of engaging post-match interviews from the historical archives and interactions with the surviving team members. A soundtrack filled with thumping 70s music sets a rhythmic pace for the movie, which is replete with energy, passion, and character - mirroring the team they were honouring.

However, I Believe In Miracles is not just a movie for football fans. It paints a picture of the social and cultural landscape of the 1970s and 1980s, the period in which Clough and Taylor operated. A time of tumultuous socio-economic and political changes, the team's achievements provided a beacon of hope and pride for the local community.

At the heart of the film is the testament to the power of teamwork, camaraderie, self-belief, raw talent, and dogged perseverance. The fascinating journey of this underrated team and their climb to the top echelons of British and European football echoes through every frame of the film. The movie also explores the rare phenomenon of the team spirit that can carry a group of individuals beyond their known abilities, leading them towards a common goal.

The players themselves play an integral part in this story. Their heartfelt anecdotes, peppered with both humor and emotional depth, provide the backbone for this documentary. Making their stories engaging to the audience, regardless of whether they are passionate football fans or individuals who are unfamiliar with the sport.

Beautifully filmed, expertly paced, and interspersed with an array of vintage footage, I Believe In Miracles delivers ingenuity and entertainment. The film traces an important era in British football that has left an indelible impact on its history, maintaining a perfect balance between sport, history, and the drama of human endeavor.

From the locker room to the lush green football field, from intimate one-on-one interviews to the collective camaraderie of the team, I Believe In Miracles encapsulates the spirit and essence of this extraordinary era. It’s a story about the magic of football and the miracles that belief and tenacity can manifest. As a true underdog story, it speaks about the dreamers, the believers, and the unexpected heroes of a small football club that made it big against all odds.