I found this gem- having never heard or read anything about it. I'm a David E. Kelly fan so it didn't surprise me that, after watching this lovely little film unfold, I fell in love with it.

The thrust of the film is that a former resident (Hank Azaria) returns to his small hometown of Mystery in Alaska, and has made overtures to the New York Rangers Club to bring them up to play a game of hockey against the local residents- all lovers of the game of hockey. Everything is go and the town, with it's hearts and hopes raised, sets about to make it an event that will beam with local pride. An event to remember. His return also sparks some memories from the past in Russell Crowe's marriage, that all three characters have to deal with.

As the story progresses, we begin meet the characters, understand their pride in their small town and their desire to maintain their own sense of themselves ie:(a retail giant has attempted to enter their marketplace and they fight against it in court- where Judge Burt Reynolds holds court).

They are suddenly thrown a curve ball when The Rangers don't want to come and have blocked the game through their union. The town- devastated, sends their beloved lawyer to New York to negotiate, and he suffers a massive heart attack while making a passionate plea on the towns behalf.

Ultimately- because of the tragedy- the game is back on and everyone is changed and charged because of it.

I really liked this film. It really took its time to let you know who the characters were- their hopes, their desires- their sensibilities and their short comings. It offers a view of small town America suddenly meeting up with the glitz and the power of the outside world looking in and, in the process of staging an event that initially seems a joke, delivers some practical 'back to basics' truths.

I haven't been much of a sports fan most of my life. I loved The Bruins line up in the early 1970's because of the combined team talent (and Orr in particular)- so it was an added delight to see them cast Phil Esposito as one of the commentators. Mike Myers (fellow Canuk and rabid hockey fan) also has a great cameo as one of the commentators who go on far too long on the wind, and change their opinions with each score that's made. He's funny here- and on target too. And for early rock fans- Little Richard does a priceless cameo during national anthem time!

Ultimately, I love the signal their sending with the final moments of the game and just after it. Love of the game and respect for and by the players.

Russell Crowe and Burt Reynolds star but everyone really shines here. Ensemble piece and a terrific screenplay that offers everyone something with substance to play. On a personal note- it's nice to see Reynolds get a half decent part to play again. And he's good here.

If you're looking for a hockey story with some real heart- here's one for the personal library.

Highly recommended.

Recommended:
Yes

Viewing Format: DVD
Video Occasion: Good for a Rainy Day
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 13 and Older