Maggie Smith’s final film, The Miracle Club, is currently available to watch on BBC iPlayer, but if you haven’t seen it yet, you’d better get a move on as it’s leaving the streaming service in just a few days.
Set in 1960s Dublin, the British period drama tells the story of three working-class women, who enter a local talent show as a singing group and win a pilgrimage to the market town of Lourdes in France.
Each of the women – Lily (Smith), Eileen (Kathy Bates) and Dolly (Agnes O’Casey) – have different reasons for embarking on the journey, and they set off despite protestations from their husbands.
Lionsgate
Related: Stephen Graham’s highest-rated drama branded “exhilarating” is one to watch tonight
They are joined by Chrissie (Laura Linney), the estranged daughter of their recently deceased friend Maureen, who was ousted from the community. As they open up about their hidden traumas, the group learn some valuable life lessons.
The Miracle Club was originally released in 2023, and marks Smith’s final ever acting role before her death in September 2024 at the age of 89. The film arrived on BBC iPlayer last month, and will be removed from the streamer on Monday (8 June) at 8.45pm.
Directed by Thaddeus O’Sullivan, the drama currently holds a respectable approval rating of 68% on Rotten Tomatoes from 116 reviews, with several outlets praising the performances from the ensemble cast.
“At 88, Smith’s comic timing is as beautifully crisp as ever, but she also gets some fierce scenes of suppressed grief over the loss of her son and one lovely scene of reconciliation with Linney that is blindingly good,” noted The Sunday Times.
Lionsgate
Related: Adrian Dunbar’s “wonderful” Ireland-set drama with James Nesbitt is now streaming for free in the UK
“The Miracle Club’s own manoeuvrings can, at times, feel a bit pat and convenient. But its final moment of reconciliation… justifies the trip,” said The Times, while iNews opined that the film had little “oomph” despite its plentiful “star power”.
Meanwhile, What She Said dubbed the period drama a “charming time capsule of rural life in 1960s Ireland, and a tale of forgiveness and love”, while Film Ireland Magazine likened it to a “fairytale”.
The Miracle Club is streaming on BBC iPlayer.
Visit our Streaming Guide now to see at a glance where you can view ALL your favourite shows and movies.
The new edition of Living Legends, a collector’s edition exploring the royal family, is here! Buy The Royals in newsagents or online.
Divya is a freelance writer with experience in entertainment and lifestyle news. Described as a “telly addict” since childhood, Divya was able to translate her interests into a BJTC-accredited, Honours degree in Journalism and Media. After working in communications and marketing, Divya joined Digital Spy as a Freelance News Reporter. She has also written for various publications including Metro, Asian World News and TwitCelebGossip; as well as interviews, features and reviews on her own blog. Divya prides herself on her TV, film and showbiz knowledge, always offering (not so) fun facts to her long-suffering friends and family. From soaps to superheroes, Divya is the go-to person for tailored recommendations and up to date information.