The Staircase (1998 TV Movie) User Reviews

A movie of strung together special moments

[wisewebwoman · 7/10 · 9 August 2006]

And I would have rated it higher than a 7 out of 10 if it wasn't for the seriously uneven Irish accent of Barbara Hershey in the leading role of Mother Madalyn. The accent came and went unfortunately which I found more than a little distracting.

However, the performance of William L Petersen in the role of Joad was outstanding, he brought a warmth and depth to the character in spite of some periodic hokey dialogue. Captivating and genuine, I found him quite astonishing in the way he captured the character.

The premise of the film is fairly simple, the building of a forgotten staircase in a church. It is based, rather loosely I believe, on a true story and I had heard of this staircase prior to seeing the movie.

It was a phenomenal engineering feat for its time - a floating double helix made without nails or screws. It exists to this day although it is now in private ownership.

**Minor Spoiler**Good supporting cast and Barbara does dying so well in all her movies and here she doesn't disappoint. Lots of special moments.

7/10

Very nice, very predictable movie

[bilborough64 · 6/10 · 17 July 2008]

This is a very nice and very predictable movie, but that isn't always a bad thing. A movie like this shows how professional an actor or actress is and what they can do with the little bit of a role they are given.

I do have problems with the actors who played Mr. Mouly (Justin Louis), and Simon Filger (David Clennon). Both of these gentlemen went over the top when it came to their roles. Louis especially went over the top when dealing with being threatened by Bode's(William Petersen) presence. The person I was most disappointed with was Barbara Hershey as the Mother Superior-Sister Madeline. From the moment I was introduced to the character I had no sympathy for the character. She railed against God and everyone around her. Maybe it was the part of her that was angry that she was dying or the fact that the chapel of her Church wasn't complete. Maybe the director told her to portray the character that way, but her performance came off as flat.

There were two very bright spots in this movie and they are the reasons I would recommend this movie. Diane Ladd played Sister Margret, the Mother Superior's second hand with such honesty and feeling. Considering Ms Ladd's ability, it really isn't surprising that she blew Hershey out of the water.

The other bright spot is William Petersen's portrayal of the mysterious carpenter Jode. Petersen portrays the character with such sympathy as he listened to Madeline's dark secret nearly bringing himself to tears.

The editing and music were wonderful, though you could tell this was a movie made for TV. The only part I had with the writing was the concept that Jode didn't carry a weapon or know how to load one. The year was 1876, Geronimo was loose.

This is a nice G rated movie with a couple of problems, but I don't think they would bother someone who is just looking for entertainment. That's why I bought it in the first place.

Great movie even if a little less than a perfect retelling of the story

[runner-15 · 8/10 · 16 August 2023]

This is a great film, well acted and based on the true story of the miracle staircase at the Loretto Chapel.

If you are ever in or near Santa Fe, New Mexico you should take the time to visit the Loretto Chapel and see the miracle staircase for yourself. I have been there twice and both times I was mesmerized. For a believer, this incredible structure and the story behind it increases your faith and makes you realize that miracles do happen and are right there for all to see. For the nonbeliever, the skill and craftsmanship that went into this amazing structure nearly 150 years ago is stunning.

This film tells the story of the construction of this extraordinary piece of architecture that even now inspires awe. The film is well shot and acted, even though at times the budget constraints of a TV film are evident.

My only complaint is that the film diverges too much, in my opinion, from the true story behind the staircase. The story of the construction of the staircase is amazing all in itself, however, in defense of the writer and director, I can see how it would have been difficult to turn into a 2 hour TV movie. So the additional subplots of the vengeful architect, and other nefarious characters, although not part of the original story are not too distracting from the real story. Plus, the basic elements of the original story are all in place in the film.

I could not agree more!

[meffaboy322 · 10/10 · 1 January 2007]

I have not seen it since 1998 and yet I STILL can't get it out of my head or stop recommending people to find it so that shows what an impression it made.

Just a wonderful story.

I just hope to see the stair at least once in person...

I didn't know much about Mr. Petersen before this movie as I hadn't seen any of his previous works but his subtle acting in this impressed me and I think his portrayal of Grissom on CSI just shows more of the same. He knows enough to let the character shine through instead of the actor shining through which makes him just that much better of an actor.

I can't remember enough about the "poor accents" to comment but I must say I have always enjoyed Barbara Hershey in all of her roles as well and I thought she also did a phenomenal job in this movie.

excellent movie!

[ksesm2003 · 10/10 · 31 October 2006]

I am from Texas and my family vacationed a couple of years ago to Sante Fe with my brother. He suggested we go to see the church with the staircase. I was absolutely blown away by the miracles that took place there. The movie is great - Barbara Hershey and William Petersen were perfect for the parts they played. It is amazing, absolutely amazing. If you have not seen the staircase in person, it is worth the trip to go see it. The wood is beautiful and the architecture is astounding. Just being in the chapel gives me goose bumps! To read about the history of the chapel, and then to see its beauty is breathtaking. See the movie - it is GREAT! Then see the staircase in person!

Haunting, captivating, exquisite

[bob-shank · 10/10 · 28 November 2004]

To those of you who've made comments on this film earlier and hoped to see it again, I hope you did. It was broadcast today (Nov. 28th,'04) on Lifetime movie network. I subscribe to Dish.

Karen Arthur directed William Petersen and Barbara Hershey in this southwestern Gothic-like tale, expertly. The lighting, editing and dialog contributed greatly to the film and Hershey and Peterson were perfectly cast for the roles, both playing sensitive, bold and intuitive characters. The screen play was excellent, as well the supporting cast.

Not having known ahead-of-time, I guessed correctly the story was based on truth, and now that I know it I must make the sojourn, as Santa Fe is a hop, skip and a jump from Tucson.

As an engineer, I was fascinated with the theme of the unique construction of the staircase and the man who designed and built it (who was he? an angel?). But the storyline, and it's several plots, of how it came to be is what most captivates you. You certainly get a strong sense that God in His heaven was in every detail of this entire drama in history. For you who have seen the film, you know what I'm talking about. For those of you who haven't, I won't spoil a minute of it...

Bon holiday,

Bob Shank Jr, Raytheon Missile Systems, Tucson, AZ

Fascinating story, well played

[lumpystv · 10/10 · 4 June 2006]

Almost no information is available about this movie, or its air dates. After an ongoing and exhaustive search I found the DVD to be available for 3.99!-release date February 28, 2006. Try yahoo/DVD and video. In order to get this information posted I will continue to state that this is a well made film with a true and fascinating story about a mysterious carpenter who builds a very unusual staircase in a church. It is a chance to see William L. Peterson before C.S.I. turned him into a star. Equally featured in the story is the venerable Barbara Hershey - does anyone remember when she was Barbara Hershey Seagull? I have to keep writing to get this posted. Thank you to the previous commentators for taking the time to recommend this somewhat obscure TV film which obviously leaves a lasting impression on many.

This is a beautiful and touching story.

[stacievictoria · 6 August 2001]

First, let me say that I adore William Petersen so I may be a bit bias towards him. This story is beautiful, mystical and haunting all at the same time. And to top it off, it is based on a true story. If this ever comes out on video, I entend to buy it and I hope that others will to so they can feel the joy of this uplifting story. I'll be watching my TV listings to see if it ever comes back on. It is extremely well acted. The leads are wonderful together. Watch this.

A wonderfully mysteriously hauntingly beautiful story

[oprlvr33 · 10/10 · 10 February 2013]

Always a Petersen (and Hersey) fan, I remember all to clearly when this TV movie released. (Dr. Quinn) was on yet another break as the previews for this aired. I remember being captivated by Petersen's male beauty and the visual of Hersey in a habit.

Their screen chemistry is dead-on and their characters, beautifully portrayed. What struck me most was the unusual (sensual) strange chemistry between them; their obvious attraction to each other, however, the conflict of her conscious vows as a nun.

This TV movie is one of the rarer gems outside the traditional Hallmark Hall of Fame movie greats (which I was amazed that it wasn't a HHFM) A total must-see, not just for Petersen or Hersey fans, alike, but for its overall quality.

Warm and insightful characterization of the who Joad was and is.

[DSwe090261 · 10/10 · 30 November 2001]

Excellent story with supperb acting by all of the cast. The warmth and insight into who Joad represents moved off of the screen and into the heart of this viewer. The frustration's and tenacity of Mother Madalyn in her quest to do HIS work till her last breath was also done with excellance by Barbara Hershey. The intertwining of the personalities of Joad and Mother Madalyn grew throughout the story line with a breath taking crescendo in the final scene.

Fabulous!!

[mistifers · 10/10 · 2 February 2006]

I saw this movie when it aired on Lifetime back in 2004. I have never seen it since then, but have thought of it often. It left such an impression on me I've been searching for it lately. I found it finally and realized it was made just for television. The movie is fabulous- filled with great writing and acting. William Petersen is perfect, as always. This movie left me speechless and in tears. It's a wonderful story of faith, love, and compassion. Does anybody know how I can obtain a copy of this movie for my home? Is that possible with television movies?? I really would love to see it again. This is a must-have among my collection!!

Everyone should visit Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe.....

[IMKeener · 10/10 · 14 August 2004]

I have just returned from Santa Fe. NM. I visited Loretto Chapel. As I looked around this building, which has been acquired by a private owner, I relived the movie version of the staircase. It is an overwhelming mystique that occupies this building. It is about what can happen if you really have faith. The bookstore there has a narrative on the subject, which is the story of the staircase. I read the narrative in its entirety. I was absorbed by the ambiance surrounding the people therein. It was like we were totally enclosed in a time warp, all with the same thoughts and awe. When we departed, the hush was overwhelming. Everyone should visit Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe. NM.

Sweet and Kind is he...

[hughluver13 · 16 February 2002]

Mr. Joad. I always wondered if he ever told her he loved her and her name. It was so touching how in the end he said her name and threw a flower in the air. Then he rode off, William Petersen (Mr. Joad) always played the macho man so I was rather suprised when he played a kind gentle man!

I CAN'T BELIEVE IT????

[hotwheelerd · 10/10 · 2 August 2019]

Ok I WATCHED THIS MOVIE LAST NIGHT. I WATCH MANY MOVIES. BUT IN THIS CASE WOW UNBELIEVABLE. This MASTERPIECE STICKS IN YOUR BRAIN LOL. All because of a Ladder in a Church then the Man Leaves AFTER WITHOUT GETTING PAID. THEY WERE GOING TO SHOOT HIM. HE DOES NOT EVEN GET SCARED. JUST KEEPS CALM AND ASKES THE MAN TO PLAY THE PIANO FOR HIM. THIS MOVIE IS UNBELIEVABLE I CAN'T BELIEVE IT. IT REALLY STICKS INTO YOUR HEAD. I WANT TO GO TO SEE THIS CHURCH. AND SEE THIS STAIRCASE. MABY THAT WILL BE MY NEXT TRIP. IF SOMEONE ASKS ME WHY? All I WILL SAY IS WATCH THE STAIRS. THEN THEY WILL NO WHY LOL. THEN I WILL SAY BECAUSE GOD WANTS ME TO. WELL ANYWAYS ONE OF THE BEST FILM'S I SEEN IN PROBABLY THE LAST FEW YEARS. IT HAD ALOT OF MESSAGES IN THE FILM. I ALSO LIKED HOW THE NUNE WAS NOT SO NICE. THAT JUST SHOWS EVERYONE THE TRUE IN REAL LIFE. YES THEY NORMALLY ARE VERY NICE AND KIND. BUT YOU DO SOMETIMES HAVE A REALLY MISERABLE ONE. THIS MOVIE WAS VERY WELL DONE HAPPY THAT I RAN INTO IT