Joyce Smith

You know what? I’m not afraid to pray. God has pulled me through many times before, and I know He'll do it again.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
John Smith

Sometimes, you have to let go and let God.

John Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Pastor Jason

Do not be afraid; I am with you always.

Pastor Jason

Breakthrough, Reelive
Joyce Smith

We fight for what we love, even in the fiercest storms.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Pastor Jason

Miracles are just the memories of God’s grace.

Pastor Jason

Breakthrough, Reelive
Joyce Smith

I refuse to believe that this is the end.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Joyce Smith

The power of prayer can change everything.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
John Smith

If you are looking for a miracle, you have to believe in miracles.

John Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Pastor Jason

Hope is a powerful catalyst for change.

Pastor Jason

Breakthrough, Reelive
Joyce Smith

Every heartbeat is a blessing.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Joyce Smith

You just have to keep fighting, one prayer at a time.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Pastor Jason

There are no limits to God’s power.

Pastor Jason

Breakthrough, Reelive
Joyce Smith

Faith doesn’t make things easy; it makes them possible.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
John Smith

Pain is part of the journey, but faith is the light.

John Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Joyce Smith

The deepest wounds often lead to the greatest miracles.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Pastor Jason

Sometimes miracles are just the beginning of deeper lessons.

Pastor Jason

Breakthrough, Reelive
Joyce Smith

Together, we can overcome the darkest days.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Joyce Smith

What we're going through is a test, and we will come out stronger.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Pastor Jason

In moments of despair, our faith becomes our compass.

Pastor Jason

Breakthrough, Reelive
Joyce Smith

Every miracle begins with a single act of faith.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Pastor Jason

You can’t put a limit on what God can do.

Pastor Jason

Breakthrough, Reelive
John Smith

The will to believe can help move mountains.

John Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive
Joyce Smith

Together, we are part of a greater plan.

Joyce Smith

Breakthrough, Reelive

You Will Be Found

You Will Be Found by Ben Platt & the Cast of Dear Evan Hansen, Performed during a pivotal emotional moment

Bring Me To Life

Bring Me To Life by Evanescence, Played during a scene of struggle and hope

Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)

Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) by Hillsong UNITED, Played during a significant turning point in the story


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John's Accident

The scene opens with John playing on a frozen lake with friends, filled with laughter and joy. Everything feels carefree until John suddenly falls through the ice. The calm quickly turns into panic as friends try to pull him out. This moment sets the stage for the emotional and physical struggles that follow.

Context: John's accident is crucial because it introduces the main conflict of the film—his fight for survival. It highlights the fragility of life and the sudden change from joy to despair.

The Hospital Room

Inside the hospital, John's mother, Joyce, stands helplessly as doctors work tirelessly to save her son. The beeping machines fill the room with a tense atmosphere. Joyce’s tears and pleading prayers add to the dramatic weight, showcasing her desperation and love.

Context: This scene is vital as it illustrates a parent's worst fear and deep love for their child. Joyce’s emotions ground the story’s spirituality and hope.

Joyce's Prayer

Joyce kneels by John's bedside, holding his hand, and delivers an emotional prayer. Her voice trembles as she pleads for a miracle, expressing her unwavering faith. The camera closes in on her face, emphasizing her anguish and hope.

Context: This moment reflects the theme of faith in adversity. It deepens the connection between Joyce and the audience, showing her as a devoted mother facing the unthinkable.

The Doctor's Prognosis

The doctor bluntly tells Joyce that John may not make it. Her heart sinks as the reality hits. This pivotal moment reveals the gravity of John's condition and sets up an uphill battle for the family.

Context: This scene is significant because it represents the stark reality of life-and-death situations, introducing despair amidst their fight for hope.

Community Comes Together

News of John’s accident spreads through the community. Friends and neighbors gather to support Joyce and her family. They pray together, holding hands in a circle, showcasing unity during a dark time.

Context: This moment depicts the power of community support, reinforcing the theme that people come together in times of crisis, providing a sense of belonging and strength.

The Miracle Begins

John unexpectedly starts to show signs of life. Doctors and nurses rush to his side, and Joyce watches in disbelief and joy. The tension breaks, and hope fills the room.

Context: This scene shifts the narrative from despair to hope, emphasizing the film's focus on miracles and the power of faith.

Joyce's Doubts

After a moment of hope, Joyce sits alone, overwhelmed and doubting if her faith can truly bring John back. Her silent struggle adds depth to her character and the overall theme of believing against all odds.

Context: This exploration of doubt makes Joyce relatable and humanizes her experience, painting a more complex picture of faith.

The Family's Reunion

When John awakens, the family rushes to his side, crying tears of joy. The bond of love between them shines through as they embrace, grateful for this new beginning.

Context: Reunions after trials often symbolize hope and love. This moment highlights the theme of familial bonds and resilience.

John's First Words

As John slowly regains his abilities, his first words are a simple 'Mom.' This moment is filled with raw emotion, bringing Joyce to tears of joy and relief.

Context: John's first words demonstrate the miracle of life, happiness, and connectivity, emphasizing themes of recovery and perseverance.

Joyce’s Faith Test

Joyce faces skepticism from friends and family about her deep faith. Her passionate defense of her beliefs illustrates her conviction and the core conflict about faith vs. reality.

Context: This scene shows the battle between doubt and conviction, emphasizing how faith can be questioned yet remains steadfast during hardship.

The Recovery Journey

John struggles during physical therapy, trying to regain mobility after his injury. His determination and the support of his therapists create a poignant narrative of resilience.

Context: This reflects the long journey of recovery, reinforcing the message that success is often built on persistence and struggle.

The Science of Miracles

A doctor explains the scientific aspect of John’s recovery, revealing how unexpected it was for someone in his condition to survive. This moment contrasts faith and science, deepening the narrative complexity.

Context: This moment brings a new layer to the story, showing that miracles can be interpreted in multiple ways, intensifying the film's exploration of belief.

A Mother's Love

In an emotional conversation, Joyce tells John about her unyielding love and the prayers that kept her going. Her sincerity and vulnerability overlap with John's gradual recovery.

Context: This moment encapsulates the essence of a mother’s love, echoing throughout the film's themes of hope and connection.

John's Determination to Walk

Amidst struggles and physical pain, John stands determined in front of his therapist, stating, 'I will walk again.' His brave declaration sends ripples of inspiration through his family and viewers.

Context: This interaction captures the spirit of resilience, showcasing John's unwavering determination that resonates with the film's core message.

Community Prayer Event

A large gathering in the community hall for a prayer event is filled with emotional speeches and testimonies praising Joyce's faith and John’s recovery. It reinforces the power of collective hope.

Context: This scene underscores the theme of communal support and highlights how many lives John and Joyce's journey has touched.

The Day John Walks Again

In an emotional climax, John takes his first steps with the assistance of his parents and therapists. The tears of joy and applause from those who have supported him make the moment unforgettable.

Context: This pivotal moment serves as a resolution to the emotional rollercoaster, showcasing the triumph of faith, hope, and family.

Facing New Challenges

John starts school again, facing the challenges of being different but brimming with confidence. His journey represents a new chapter in his life filled with possibilities.

Context: This scene signifies resilience and growth after recovery while aligning with the overall theme of emerging stronger from trials.

Confrontation with Skeptics

John confronts those who doubted him and shares his perspective on faith, recovery, and miracles with confidence. His voice trembles with emotion but also with newfound strength.

Context: This moment showcases John's character growth, asserting his belief in himself and the journey he has undergone.

The Last Prayer

In a reflective moment, Joyce prays not only for John but for strength and wisdom for the future. This serves as a powerful closing prayer representation of faith enduring through struggles.

Context: This scene encapsulates the theme of faith being a guiding force, reflecting how adversity can bring one closer to their beliefs.

John's Message

At a speaking event, John shares his story, ending with a powerful message about faith and hope, encouraging others to believe in miracles. The audience’s reaction is overwhelmingly emotional.

Context: This scene reinforces the impact of personal stories, emphasizing the importance of sharing one’s journey as part of healing and inspiring others.

Joyce’s Reflection

In a quiet moment, Joyce reflects on the journey they’ve been through featuring memories of her prayers, struggles, and the miracles. A reflective soundtrack plays, amplifying the emotional weight.

Context: This closing reflection ties together the film's themes of faith, hope, and family love, leaving viewers with a resonating emotional message.

New Beginnings

The film concludes with John leading a school assembly, standing tall, embodying hope and resilience. The audience’s applause symbolizes love and support, celebrating his recovery.

Context: This scene embodies the culmination of John's journey, serving as a beacon of hope that resonates deeply with the audience.

Message to the World

In a powerful closing shot, John faces the camera, conveying a universal message of believing in miracles regardless of circumstances. His sincerity brings tears to the eyes of viewers.

Context: The final message connects deeply with the film's overarching themes, positioning John as a figure of hope and resilience.

The Healing Journey

John’s physical healing is woven with emotional moments shared with his family. Heartfelt laughter, struggles, and small victories create a rich tapestry of healing.

Context: This montage showcases the intertwined nature of physical and emotional healing, highlighting that recovery is a holistic journey.

Joyce's Growing Strength

Throughout her journey, Joyce discovers her own strength and the importance of community. She rallies others to share their experiences of hope and faith, creating a supportive network.

Context: This character arc demonstrates personal growth and strength, central to the film's message of resilience not only in individuals but also in communities.

The Touch of Faith

In quiet moments, John’s fingers trace his mother’s rosary, representing the connection between faith and family. The visual symbolism captures the enduring bond between them.

Context: This moment signifies the film’s exploration of how faith remains as a guiding force within relationships.


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Faith-Based Inspiration

The film 'Breakthrough' is based on the true story of Joyce Smith, whose son John fell through a frozen lake and was declared dead for over an hour before miraculously coming back to life.

Why it matters: Understanding this critical background provides a deeper emotional context to the story, showcasing the film’s themes of faith, family, and resilience that resonate with many viewers.

Casting the Lead Role

The role of Joyce Smith was originally intended for a different actress, but Chrissy Metz was cast after the producers witnessed her audition and felt her performance brought a unique depth to the character.

Why it matters: This change led to Metz delivering a profoundly emotional performance, which became a centerpiece of the film, enhancing its authenticity and emotional weight.

On-Set Baptisms

During production, the cast and crew held a prayer service on set, which included participants sharing personal experiences of faith and healing, deepening their connection to the material.

Why it matters: This nurturing environment fostered camaraderie among the actors, resulting in more heartfelt performances that contributed to the film’s emotional impact.

Special Effects for Hypothermia

To simulate John's extensive hypothermia, the production team utilized special effects makeup that realistically depicted his injuries when he was pulled from the icy water.

Why it matters: The convincing portrayal heightened the stakes in the story, shocking the audience and grounding the miraculous recovery in a powerful narrative context.

Real-Life Inspirations

Joyce Smith, the protagonist, was actively involved in the production process, advising on scenes and character motivations to ensure authenticity in her portrayal.

Why it matters: Her firsthand insights enriched the screenplay, allowing the actors to deliver more credible performances reflective of real emotions and experiences.

Emotional Weight of the Script

The screenplay underwent multiple revisions to capture the essence of the faith-based themes while balancing emotional storytelling and dramatic tension.

Why it matters: These adjustments resulted in a well-paced narrative that resonates powerfully with audiences, making the emotional arcs feel authentic and relatable.

Location Shooting

Filming took place in various locations in America, including parts of Missouri, which mimicked the settings of the actual events, bringing a sense of realism to the film.

Why it matters: This authenticity helps viewers feel rooted in the story, enhancing their emotional engagement with the characters and the unfolding events.

Music Composition

The musical score was composed by John Paesano, who used thematic elements that echoed the film's emotional peaks and valleys, ensuring that music accentuated the story.

Why it matters: The score not only adds to the film's atmosphere but also amplifies the emotional responses from the audience during key moments, enhancing the viewing experience.

Inspiration from the Faith Community

Prior to filming, the production team reached out to several faith leaders to gain insights into how to portray the community and its support for Joyce during her trials.

Why it matters: This consultation resulted in a richer and more accurate depiction of faith in action, allowing audiences to see the multi-faceted nature of support in times of crisis.

Collaborative Directing

Directed by Roxann Dawson, the film showcases her unique perspective as a woman, bringing a distinct emotionality to the film’s storytelling.

Why it matters: Dawson's background fosters an understanding of strong female narratives, intensifying viewers' connection to Joyce's struggles and triumphs throughout the film.

Using Real Personal Stories

The film features several real-life testimonials from people who experienced similar miracles or challenges, shared in promotional materials and screenings.

Why it matters: Incorporating these real stories reinforces the film’s central premise of faith and miracles, allowing audiences to draw personal connections to Joyce’s experience.

Chrissy Metz's Personal Connection

Chrissy Metz revealed that she too had a deeply personal experience with faith and loss, which she drew upon to portray Joyce authentically.

Why it matters: This personal touch allowed Metz to deliver a performance grounded in genuine emotion, making her interpretation of Joyce resonate strongly with viewers.

Recreating the Lake Incident

To recreate the harrowing scene of John's accident, the crew used a modified ice platform to safely film the sequences while ensuring the actors’ safety.

Why it matters: This commitment to safety while seeking authenticity resulted in a tension-filled scene that remained both gripping and true to life, enhancing the stakes for the audience.

Cinematic Collaboration

The cinematographer, David M. Dunlap, used innovative camera techniques to capture the emotional nuances of each scene, particularly during moments of tension and triumph.

Why it matters: Dunlap’s visual storytelling elevated the film's emotional impact, helping audiences feel the highs and lows alongside the characters.

Use of Visual Effects

While the film relied heavily on practical effects, some visual enhancements were used to portray John's near-death experience in a surreal and poignant manner.

Why it matters: This careful blending of practical and visual effects enhanced pivotal scenes, allowing viewers to visually grasp the miracle aspect of John's journey.

Connection to Faith-Based Audiences

The filmmakers tested early cuts of the film with faith-based audiences, seeking feedback to ensure the depiction resonated with their values and beliefs.

Why it matters: This engagement not only honed the film's message but also generated early buzz within faith communities, amplifying its reach and reception.

Community Impact Events

Alongside the film’s release, community events were organized to discuss themes of hope and healing, directly engaging with audiences and inviting conversation.

Why it matters: These initiatives allowed the film to leave a lasting impression, encouraging viewers to continue exploring its themes in their own lives beyond the cinema.

Joyce Smith's Cameo

Joyce Smith herself makes a brief cameo in the film, further grounding the narrative in authenticity and offering viewers a connection to the real-life story.

Why it matters: This appearance adds a layer of gravitas to the film, allowing viewers to see the actual person whose faith facilitated the miraculous events portrayed.

Engagement with Healthcare Professionals

The production collaborated with medical experts to ensure the portrayal of the emergency response and recovery processes were accurate and respectful.

Why it matters: This authenticity provides credibility to the dramatic events, making the story feel more impactful and resonant with those who may have similar experiences.

Focus on Mental Health

The film also subtly explores themes of mental health, particularly in how Joyce copes with trauma and the support she receives from her community.

Why it matters: This focus broadens the film's appeal and understanding, allowing discussions about mental health within the context of faith and miracles, which is often overlooked.

Inspirational Screening Events

Special screenings were arranged for anti-bullying and suicide prevention organizations, aiming to spread the uplifting messages of the film within vulnerable communities.

Why it matters: These poignant screenings aimed to provide hope and support, further extending the film's relevance and influence beyond traditional cinema walls.

Diverse Representation

The casting choices aimed to represent a diverse community, ensuring the film's depiction of the family and friends surrounding Joyce were authentic and relatable.

Why it matters: This commitment to diversity not only reflects the real-life community but also allows wider audiences to see themselves in the storytelling, enhancing its emotional reach.


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