The Miracle of Bern is a 2003 German movie directed by Sönke Wortmann. The film tells the story of the West German soccer team and their unexpected victory in the 1954 World Cup, which was held in Switzerland. The team, who were considered underdogs going into the tournament, managed to defeat the heavily favored Hungarian team in the final match, thus securing their first ever World Cup trophy.
The movie intertwines the story of the soccer team with two other plots. The first one follows a German family that was divided during World War II. The father, Richard, is a prisoner of war in Russia and has been away from his family for over a decade. His wife, Christa, has been raising their two sons, Matthias, and Bruno, on her own. The family struggles to reconnect and come to terms with how the war and Richard's absence have changed them.
The second plot revolves around a reporter, Paul Ackermann, and his wife, Katja, who are sent to cover the tournament. Paul is initially skeptical about the team's chances and views his assignment as a nuisance. However, as he interviews the players and witnesses their determination and camaraderie, he becomes invested in their success.
The Miracle of Bern is a heart-warming and poignant movie that explores themes of family, perseverance, and national pride. The film received critical acclaim and was a commercial success in Germany and other parts of Europe. It is widely regarded as one of the best sports movies ever made.