17+ Best Movies About Hockey (Top Picks)

Hockey is a sport that has captured the hearts of millions around the world. Its fast-paced action, intense rivalries, and incredible skill make it a thrilling game to watch.

Over the years, many filmmakers have recognized the potential of hockey as a subject for movies, resulting in a number of memorable films that showcase the sport’s excitement and drama.

Hockey has been the backdrop for many memorable films, from inspiring true stories to comedic takes on the sport. Here’s a list of some of the best movies about hockey:

Slap Shot (1977) – A failing hockey team resorts to violent play to gain popularity.

Miracle (2004) – True story of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team’s victory.

The Mighty Ducks (1992) – A lawyer coaches a youth hockey team.

Goon (2011) – A bouncer becomes a minor league hockey enforcer.

Mystery, Alaska (1999) – An amateur hockey team faces off against the New York Rangers.

Youngblood (1986) – A young player’s journey in the Canadian junior hockey world.

Red Army (2014) – Documentary about the Soviet Union’s hockey dynasty.

Indian Horse (2017) – A young indigenous boy’s salvation through hockey.

The Rocket (2005) – Biopic of Canadian hockey legend Maurice Richard.

Breakaway (2011) – An ice hockey player faces cultural challenges.

Net Worth (1995) – The struggle for players’ rights in the early NHL.

Sudden Death (1995) – Action film set during the Stanley Cup Finals.

Les Boys (1997) – A group of amateur players and their adventures.

Idol of the Crowds (1937) – A chicken farmer becomes a hockey sensation.

Score: A Hockey Musical (2010) – A hockey prodigy’s rise to fame, set to music.

Face-Off (1971) – A love story between a hockey player and a musician.

Keep Your Head Up, Kid: The Don Cherry Story (2010) – Biopic of the famous hockey broadcaster.

Hello Destroyer (2016) – A junior hockey player’s life changes after an on-ice incident.

These films capture the spirit, challenges, and drama of hockey, both on and off the ice. They offer a mix of comedy, drama, and action, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the sport and its impact on individuals and communities.

Here we look at some of the best movies about hockey, delving into their plots, characters, and impact on the audience.

Table of Contents

The Mighty Ducks (1992)

One of the most beloved hockey movies of all time, “The Mighty Ducks” tells the story of a young lawyer, Gordon Bombay, who is forced to coach a misfit youth hockey team as part of his community service.

Through his coaching, Bombay transforms the team from underdogs to contenders, teaching them valuable life lessons along the way.

The film’s success led to two sequels, “D2: The Mighty Ducks” (1994) and “D3: The Mighty Ducks” (1996), further solidifying its place in hockey movie history.

The franchise not only entertained audiences but also inspired a generation of young hockey players, leading to an increase in participation in the sport.

Miracle (2004)

“Miracle” is a sports drama film based on the true story of the 1980 United States Olympic hockey team.

The movie follows coach Herb Brooks as he assembles a team of college players to compete against the dominant Soviet Union team in the Winter Olympics.

Against all odds, the U.S. team achieves a historic victory, known as the “Miracle on Ice.”

The film captures the intensity and determination of the players, showcasing their journey from underdogs to champions.

“Miracle” not only celebrates the sport of hockey but also highlights the power of teamwork and the ability to overcome adversity.

It remains one of the most inspiring sports movies ever made.

Slap Shot (1977)

Considered a cult classic, “Slap Shot” is a comedy film that takes a humorous look at the world of minor league hockey.

The movie follows the fictional Charlestown Chiefs, a struggling team that resorts to violent and unconventional tactics to gain attention and success.

“Slap Shot” is known for its raunchy humor and memorable characters, particularly the charismatic player-coach Reggie Dunlop, played by Paul Newman.

The film’s portrayal of the rough and gritty side of hockey, combined with its comedic elements, has made it a favorite among fans of the sport.

Mystery, Alaska (1999)

“Mystery, Alaska” tells the story of a small town in Alaska that gets the opportunity to play an exhibition game against the New York Rangers, one of the top teams in the National Hockey League (NHL).

The film explores the impact of the game on the town’s residents and their love for the sport.

While not a critical or commercial success, “Mystery, Alaska” resonates with hockey fans due to its portrayal of the sport’s importance in a tight-knit community.

The movie captures the passion and camaraderie that hockey can foster, even in the most unlikely of places.

Youngblood (1986)

“Youngblood” is a coming-of-age sports drama that follows the journey of a talented young hockey player, Dean Youngblood, as he tries to make it to the professional level.

The film explores the challenges and sacrifices that athletes face in pursuit of their dreams.

Starring Rob Lowe and Patrick Swayze, “Youngblood” showcases the physical and mental demands of the sport, as well as the rivalries and friendships that develop among teammates.

The movie’s realistic portrayal of the hockey world, combined with its compelling storyline, makes it a must-watch for fans of the sport.

The Rocket (2005)

“The Rocket” is a biographical drama film that tells the story of Maurice Richard, one of the greatest hockey players in history.

The movie explores Richard’s journey from a young boy with a passion for the game to a legendary figure who inspired a generation of players.

“The Rocket” not only delves into Richard’s on-ice achievements but also examines the challenges he faced as a French-Canadian player in a predominantly English-speaking league.

The film highlights Richard’s impact on the sport and his role in breaking down barriers for future generations of players.

Moving the Puck: The Impact of Hockey Movies

Hockey movies have had a significant impact on both the sport and its fans.

They have the power to inspire, entertain, and educate audiences about the game and its values.

Here are some key ways in which hockey movies have made a difference:

Inspiring a love for the sport: Movies like “The Mighty Ducks” and “Miracle” have introduced hockey to new audiences and inspired countless individuals to pick up a stick and give the sport a try. These films showcase the excitement and passion of hockey, making it more accessible and appealing to people of all ages.
Teaching valuable life lessons: Many hockey movies go beyond the game itself and explore themes of teamwork, perseverance, and overcoming adversity. They teach viewers important lessons about dedication, sportsmanship, and the value of hard work. These films can have a lasting impact on young athletes, shaping their character both on and off the ice.
Preserving hockey history: Films like “Miracle” and “The Rocket” immortalize important moments and figures in hockey history. They ensure that the stories of legendary players and teams are not forgotten, allowing future generations to learn about the sport’s rich heritage.
Bringing communities together: Hockey movies often depict the strong bonds that form within teams and communities. They showcase the sense of belonging and camaraderie that hockey can foster, highlighting its ability to bring people together and create lasting connections.

FAQs – Best Movies About Hockey

1. What are some other notable hockey movies?

Aside from the movies mentioned in this article, there are several other notable hockey films worth watching.

Some of these include:

“Goon” (2011) – A comedy film about a bouncer who becomes an enforcer for a minor league hockey team.
“The Cutting Edge” (1992) – A romantic comedy that combines figure skating and hockey.
“Net Worth” (1995) – A biographical film about the early days of professional hockey and the struggles of its players.
“The Last Gladiators” (2011) – A documentary that explores the role of enforcers in hockey and the physical toll the game takes on its players.

2. Are there any hockey movies based on true stories?

Yes, several hockey movies are based on true stories.

“Miracle” (2004) is based on the true story of the 1980 United States Olympic hockey team’s victory over the Soviet Union.

“The Rocket” (2005) is a biographical film about Maurice Richard, a legendary player in the National Hockey League.

These movies offer a glimpse into the real-life events and individuals that have shaped the sport of hockey.

3. Are there any documentaries about hockey?

Yes, there are several documentaries that delve into various aspects of hockey.

Some notable documentaries include:

“Ice Guardians” (2016) – Explores the role of enforcers in hockey and their impact on the game.
“Red Army” (2014) – Focuses on the Soviet Union’s dominant hockey team of the 1980s and the political backdrop of the Cold War.
“The Last Gladiators” (2011) – Examines the role of enforcers in hockey and the physical toll the game takes on its players.
“Pond Hockey” (2008) – Explores the culture and love for the game of hockey in outdoor rinks and ponds.

4. Are there any hockey movies for kids?

Yes, there are several hockey movies that are suitable for kids.

The most popular one is “The Mighty Ducks” franchise, which includes three movies: “The Mighty Ducks” (1992), “D2: The Mighty Ducks” (1994), and “D3: The Mighty Ducks” (1996).

These films follow a group of misfit kids who form a hockey team and learn valuable life lessons along the way.

They are entertaining and family-friendly, making them perfect for young hockey fans.

5. Are there any hockey movies from outside North America?

While hockey is most popular in North America, there are also hockey movies from other countries.

One notable example is “Les Boys” (1997), a French-Canadian comedy film about a recreational hockey team.

It spawned several sequels and became a cultural phenomenon in Quebec.

Another example is “Indian Horse” (2017), a Canadian drama film based on the novel of the same name, which explores the experiences of an Indigenous boy in the Canadian residential school system and his love for hockey.

6. Are there any hockey movies that focus on women’s hockey?

While there are fewer movies that specifically focus on women’s hockey, there are a few notable ones.

“The Mighty Macs” (2009) is a sports drama film based on the true story of the Immaculata College women’s basketball team, but it highlights the struggles and triumphs of women in sports.

“Breakaway” (2011) is a comedy film about a young Sikh-Canadian man who forms an all-Sikh hockey team to compete in a tournament.

While not exclusively about women’s hockey, it showcases the diversity and inclusivity of the sport.

7. Do hockey movies accurately portray the sport?

Hockey movies often take creative liberties to enhance the drama and entertainment value of the story.

While they may not always accurately depict the technical aspects of the game, they capture the spirit and excitement of hockey.

It’s important to remember that these movies are primarily meant for entertainment and storytelling rather than providing a realistic portrayal of the sport.

8. Do hockey players enjoy watching hockey movies?

Many hockey players enjoy watching hockey movies, as they can relate to the passion and challenges depicted in these films.

Hockey movies often resonate with players on a personal level, reminding them of their own experiences on the ice.

These films can also serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for players, reminding them of the values and lessons associated with the sport.

9. Are there any upcoming hockey movies to look forward to?

While specific details may vary, there are often new hockey movies in development or production.

It’s always worth keeping an eye on upcoming releases and announcements from filmmakers and studios.

These movies can offer fresh perspectives on the sport and introduce new stories and characters to the world of hockey cinema.

10. Can non-hockey fans enjoy hockey movies?

While hockey movies are particularly appealing to fans of the sport, they can also be enjoyed by those who are not familiar with or passionate about hockey.

These films often have compelling storylines, well-developed characters, and universal themes that resonate with a wide audience.

Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or simply looking for an engaging movie, hockey films can provide an entertaining and meaningful viewing experience.

Summary – Best Movies About Hockey

Hockey movies have a special place in the hearts of fans around the world.

From inspiring underdog stories to comedic portrayals of the sport’s quirks, these films capture the excitement, drama, and values associated with hockey.

Movies like “The Mighty Ducks” and “Miracle” have not only entertained audiences but also inspired a love for the sport and taught valuable life lessons.

Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or simply looking for an entertaining sports movie, these films are sure to leave a lasting impression.

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