The Miracle Woman

Florence Fallon confronts the elders who have replaced her father after twenty years of ministry. She claims her father died of a broken heart and denounces the congregation as hypocritical and ungrateful. The speech marks a sharp turn from mourning to public outrage, setting her on a collision course with the church hierarchy.

As the congregation files out, Bob Hornsby, a promoter, recognizes a potential fundraising angle in Florence's indignation. He persuades her that her faith can be used to squeeze donations from gullible believers. The seed is planted for a new, profit-driven evangelism.

Florence becomes a traveling evangelist under the moniker Sister Fallon, joining the Temple of Happiness. Her sermons are broadcast on the radio, expanding her reach beyond the church. The new persona marks a shift from local preacher to media-backed religious figure.

John Carson, a blind aviator veteran, contemplates suicide but is drawn to Florence's radio sermon. The broadcast offers hope he thinks he can believe in, even without sight. His curiosity sets the stage for a complex relationship with Florence.

John and his caretaker Mrs. Higgins attend Florence's crusade, where she preaches from inside a cage of lions. The daring spectacle showcases her magnetic pull and willingness to test faith publicly. The moment heightens the tension between spectacle and sincerity.

Florence challenges a congregant to enter the lion cage with her as an expression of faith. John accepts the invitation, stepping into danger as a sign of belief. The act cements the unusual bond developing between them.

After Florence finishes a sermon at a party, Hornsby shows a newspaper article asserting Welford's suicide and declares his love for Florence. He forcibly kisses her and then takes her house key, signaling the start of coercive manipulation. The confrontation foreshadows the moral peril underpinning the enterprise.

Florence returns to John's apartment for a quiet, romantic evening. The two share a kiss, and she agrees to hire John to write religious hymns, solidifying their personal and professional alliance. The boundaries between faith, deceit, and affection blur.

Back at Florence's house, Hornsby sneaks in and presents planted stories about Florence ending her crusade for health and traveling to Palestine, which is actually a trip to Monte Carlo. He threatens exposure unless she cooperates, tightening his grip on her fate. The moral compromise deepens as Florence teeters between truth and expedience.

Florence tells John the truth about the deception, but John says he still loves her and wants to believe in their partnership. The confession tests their relationship, infusing the story with emotional complexity. The moment marks a turning point in their dynamic.

Before Florence's farewell sermon, John tries to convince her that his sight has returned, but his claim is met with skepticism. Hornsby reacts with jealousy and punches John, escalating the conflict. The tension shifts from faith to personal vendetta.

Florence reveals the truth to the congregation, and Hornsby orders the lights shut off, triggering a panic and fire. The crowd flees while Florence remains steadfast, singing to steady them. John, revived from his earlier setback, rescues Florence from the blaze.

Six months pass and Hornsby discovers Florence has aligned with the Salvation Army. Her faith appears renewed, even as he watches with contempt. The power dynamics have shifted, and Florence now channels her influence toward aid work.

Florence receives a telegram from John stating that his eyesight could be restored, offering a hopeful prospect for their future. The message arrives as she continues her work with the Salvation Army. The possibility of regained sight lends a fragile optimism to their relationship.

Florence marches with renewed faith as the film closes, guiding her work with the Salvation Army. Hornsby watches with contempt, realizing he could not control her any longer. Her journey from self-serving promoter to faith-driven reformer is complete.