For ranking the best hockey documentaries, I gotta admit, I’m I’m biased — I’m American.
As a kid, I walked to school by the house of Jim Craig (of “Do you believe in miracles?” and Rangers fame).
But, in ranking the best hockey docs below, I did my best to be neutral.
For example, only 10 of the 25 documentaries are directly on the NHL.
I rank the top hockey docs below in order of how watchable/retellable they are.
My list below was probably the hardest list of documentaries I’ve had to rank.
An argument can be made for any of the top 12 hockey docs to grab the #1 spot.
I even list a crime doc from Netflix that happens to be about hockey.
And my brother in law is gonna be pi$$ed about my ranking — “The Last Gladiators” is his favorite is ranked #12 in my list. That’s mostly because I couldn’t find a sizeable chunk of the doc anywhere to watch.
But I had to pick just one to start with, so it’s:
1) Do You Believe in Miracles? The Story of the 1980 U S Hockey Team (2001)
Not only is “Do You Believe in Miracles?” my favorite hockey documentary…an argument can be made that it’s the greatest sports moment of the 20th century.
It’s David vs. Goliath on ice.
I’m of course talking about the underdog tale of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team.
They’re just a bunch of college kids who toppled the seemingly invincible Soviet Union team at Lake Placid.
Picture this: Cold War tensions are a backdrop, making this more than just a game.
Director Jonathan Hock isn’t just showing us a miracle on ice; he’s immersing us in an era where a hockey game felt like a political standoff.
The doc isn’t about the how, but the who.
You get to know Coach Herb Brooks, a mastermind with a vision, and his squad of young, untested players.
And the “kids” who played for him? Check out this bunch:
- Mike Eruzione: The charismatic captain and the team’s heart and soul.
- Jim Craig: The standout goaltender whose incredible saves, particularly in the game against the Soviet Union, were crucial for the team’s success.
- Mark Johnson: His speed and scoring ability made him a vital asset.
- Buzz Schneider: Also known for his speed, Schneider was part of the famed “Conehead Line,” which was known for its unorthodox but effective playing style.
- Rob McClanahan and Dave Silk: Both players were significant contributors to the team’s offense, with McClanahan known for his aggressive play and Silk for his versatility.
- Jack O’Callahan and Ken Morrow: As defensemen, they played key roles in the team’s defensive strategy (Morrow goes onto to play with the New York Islanders).
Hock mixes archival footage with interviews, capturing not just the play-by-play, but the emotion, the pressure, the sheer disbelief.
It’s a reminder of what sports can be at their best: unifying, inspiring, downright miraculous.
For anyone who gets goosebumps from a great sports story or loves a slice of history, “Do You Believe in Miracles?” is a must-watch.
Watch “Do You Believe in Miracles? The Story of the 1980 U S Hockey Team” for free on YouTube by clicking the embed above or going here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDBuPpalXI4.
If that link doesn’t work, check https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/do-you-believe-in-miracles-the-story-of-the-1980-u-s-hockey-team to see if they added any streaming options.
You can also buy the DVD on Amazon here.
2) Hockey: A People’s History
“Hockey: A People’s History” is a 10-part docuseries from The Canadian Broadcast Corporation.
The episodes (each about 44 minutes) cover the founding of hockey in Montreal in 1875 up until the owner disputes that helped cancel 2004/2005 season.
It’s (of course) got a bias toward Canada.
But it’s the best comprehensive history of hockey out there.
There are 10 episodes covering 1875 to 2005:
- “A Simple Game” (S1.E1 – Sun, Sep 17, 2006): On March 3, 1875, students at McGill University in Montreal play the first known hockey game, igniting a new passion.
- “A Money Game” (S1.E2 – Sun, Sep 17, 2006): NHL’s inception in 1917 and rule modernization by the Patrick brothers.
- “Empires on Ice” (S1.E3 – Sun, Sep 24, 2006): During WWI, women replace men in pro hockey, and Canada competes in the 1924 Winter Olympics.
- “The People’s Game” (S1.E4 – Sun, Sep 24, 2006): The Great Depression threatens the NHL, but radio and Foster Hewitt save it.
- “A National Obsession” (S1.E5 – Sun, Oct 1, 2006): Hockey Night in Canada debuts on TV in 1952, featuring Richard and Howe.
- “The Golden Age” (S1.E6 – Sun, Oct 1, 2006): Rivalry between Toronto and Montreal, embodied by Tim Horton and Jean Béliveau.
- “Soul of a Nation” (S1.E7 – Sun, Oct 8, 2006): Canada and the Soviet Union face off in the 1972 Summit Series, a source of national pride.
- “Hope and Betrayal” (S1.E8 – Sun, Oct 8, 2006): Wayne Gretzky revitalizes the NHL in the 1980s amid frequent fights.
- “Winter of Discontent” (S1.E9 – Sun, Oct 15, 2006): Highlights in the 1990s but also challenges like the Eagleson affair and team closures.
- “Reclaiming the Game” (S1.E10 – Sun, Oct 15, 2006): Team Canada’s Olympic gold, owner disputes and moral questions arise. The 2004/2005 is canceled.
Watch all 10 episodes of “Hockey: A People’s History” for free on YouTube by clicking the embed link above or here.
3) The Russian Five
Detroit rolls the dice in the late ’80s by covertly bringing over these five Russian players—Sergei Fedorov, Slava Fetisov, Vladimir Konstantinov, Igor Larionov, Slava Kozlov.
We’re talking real spy movie stuff here just to get them out from the Soviet regime.
These dudes show up and immediately you could tell this wasn’t your average trade.
The Red Wings had to pull some strings for this one.
Their style of play was just…different. More passing, more skill with the puck. Not as much dump-and-chase.
The best part is seeing how these five just change the entire dynamic of the team. The squad starts clicking at the perfect time.
I mean, back-to-back Stanley Cups in ’97 and ’98 with the Russian Five leading the way?
You can’t script that any better.
But director Josh Riehl isn’t afraid to tackle the ugly stuff too.
They get into this awful limo crash right after the ’97 Cup win that puts Konstantinov in a wheelchair. I gotta be honest, I got a little misty-eyed at that point.
Even if you don’t know Pavel Datsyuk from Pavel Bure, do yourself a favor and watch this doc.
The history around these five Soviets defecting to play in the NHL is just wild.
Throw in the Red Wings dynasty and the human elements, and you got yourself one hell of a sports story. Two enthusiastic and emotional thumbs up!
Watch The Russian Five for free on Plex (with ads), on Fubo (with subscription) or renting it on Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube. All streaming options should be here: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/the-russian-five
FYI: The Russian Five (and “Red Army”) are also featured in my list of 20 documentaries on Russia (ranked).
4) The Nagano Tapes: Rewound, Replayed & Reviewed
“The Nagano Tapes: Rewound, Replayed & Reviewed” isn’t just a rewind button on a historic hockey game; it’s a deep dive into one of the Olympics’ most jaw-dropping moments.
Released in 2018, this doc throws us back to the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, where the Czech Republic’s hockey team did the unthinkable.
Picture this: It’s the first time NHL players hit the Olympic ice, and everyone’s betting on powerhouses like Canada or Russia.
But wait – here comes the Czech team, led by the legendary Dominik Hašek, turning the hockey world upside down.
This doc isn’t just about the underdog win; it’s a play-by-play of strategy, skill, and sheer willpower.
Director Ondřej Hudeček laces up the storytelling skates to show us how Hašek and his crew, including Jaromír Jágr and Patrik Eliáš, outplayed, outlasted, and outwitted the giants.
Hudeček takes us behind the scenes, from locker room prep to on-ice battles, showing how this Czech squad wasn’t just playing for gold; they were playing for national pride.
The tension is like a penalty shootout – every move counts.
The doc’s real MVP? The footage.
It’s a blend of game clips and interviews, making you feel like you’re in Nagano, feeling every checkand save.
And Hašek, he’s more than a goalie here; he’s a brick wall.
“The Nagano Tapes” is for anyone who loves a good David vs. Goliath tale (especially hockey).
It’s about how a small country skated into history.
Watch it for free (though you have to register) on Olympics.com at https://olympics.com/en/films/watch/the-nagano-tapes-five-rings-films
FYI — I found watching this doc on my iPhone super-tricky (it woudn’t expand to full screen) so I watched it on my laptop. On your flatscreen TV might be the best option.
5) Unrivaled: Red Wings v. Avalanche
“Unrivaled: Red Wings v. Avalanche” (2021) brings us into one of the fiercest NHL rivalries: The Detroit Red Wings and Colorado Avalanche from the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Director Joshua Riehl makes every game feel like a battle.
Some highlights:
- The Coaches’ Chess Match: Scotty Bowman and Marc Crawford go head-to-head. It’s not just a game on ice, it’s a battle of wits and strategy behind the benches… a tactical showdown.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tensions: Riehl digs into the off-ice drama. Think fiery locker room speeches and sly press comments. It’s psychological gameplay that turned up the heat on this rivalry.
- Impact on the NHL: This rivalry did more than rile up fans; it reshaped the league. The showdown influenced rule changes, literally altering the NHL playbook.
- Fan Perspectives: Fan views straight from Detroit and Denver. The rivalry didn’t just stay on the ice; it pumped through the cities, stirring up community spirit.
- Players’ Skills and Stories: Dive into the tales of Red Wings players like Steve Yzerman, Brendan Shanahan, Chris Chelios, and Darren McCarty; and from the Avalanche: Joe Sakic, Peter Forsberg, Adam Foote, and Patrick Roy.
Watch it on EPSN+ at https://www.espn.com/watch/catalog/03e8dbae-e1f5-4ca8-bdc0-cd5fadacc4d2/unrivaled-red-wings-v-avalanche
6) Behind the B
The NHL’s Bruins are to Boston what the ocean is to Nantucket—always there, a crucial part of our DNA.
But even for Bruin diehards, much of what really goes on inside the locker room doors is terra incognita.
Finally, with “Behind the B,” you get an all-access VIP pass.
Forget the Bobby Orr statue outside TD Garden—just head behind the scenes with this baby!
Let’s be honest, when this show launched, I was skeptical.
Nine seasons on just one hockey team — following every twist and turn?
I envisioned boring strategy meetings and guys discussing their sock tape.
But dammit, it sucked me in from Bergeron’s draft to Marchy hoisting that long-awaited Cup.
Huge credit to Cam Neely and the Bs leadership—not every Original Six franchise would let cameras grind away for nearly a decade.
Of course, storylines were vital for keeping fans engaged. And there was no shortage of juicy arcs!
We pick our jaws off the floor watching GM Peter Chiarelli’s iffy 2011 deals implode.
We feel the room’s nervous energy during playoff heartbreaks—B fans still have nightmares about that ’19 Cup Final.
And who hasn’t belted out Sweet Caroline after an OT victory?
For sure, no one’s claiming this doc reaches “Last Dance” heights.
Still, it’s the top-ranked docuseries on one hockey team.
For B’s junkies, that’s like having a permanent all-access media badge, right up until they hoist that long-elusive Cup in 2022!
Will I watch another nine seasons? Maybe not. But B fans will.
Watch “Behind The B” for free on YouTube on the Boston Bruins “Behind The B” playlist
7) Gold Rush (2002)
“Gold Rush,” the 2002 hockey doc takes us back to the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.
It’s where the Canadian men’s hockey team ended a 50-year gold medal drought.
The doc captures the essence of a nation’s hopes pinned on a team led by stars like Mario Lemieux and Joe Sakic.
Director Alex Shuper crafts a narrative that’s more than a tournament recap.
You get the strategies, the locker room dynamics, and the on-ice decisions that led to Canada clinching gold.
Watch “Gold Rush” for free on YouTube by clicking the embed link above or here. If that doesn’t work, here’s a backup link on YouTube (audio is not as good on that one).
8) UKE: The Untold Story of Hockey Legends
“UKE: The Untold Story of Hockey Legends” (2020) is a 1 hour and 30-dive into the rich, often overlooked Ukrainian influence on the NHL.
Here’s the shocker: Over a century, more than fifty Ukrainians clinched NHL championships, a stat busting every stereotype.
This doc isn’t just about goals and games; it’s a revelation of a cultural legacy on ice.
It unearths how these players, rooted in Ukrainian immigrant families, juggled dual identities – dominating in the rink while preserving their language and culture.
Think about this: Even Wayne Gretzky, the Great One, has Ukrainian blood (his grandparents lived in the Ternopil and Beresteysk regions with the surname Gretskyy).
Watch UKE by renting it on Amazon Prime here on on Apple TV here
9) Red Army
Red Army” is about the Soviet Union’s hockey dynasty and the story of Viacheslav Fetisov, the legendary defenseman and captain.
It’s his journey, from national hero to political enemy, that anchors the narrative.
Directed by Gabe Polsky, (“The Motel Life”) this doc dives deep.
It’s got it all: politics, global power struggles, the Miracle on Ice, Slava Fetisov, producers meddling with teams
Fetisov’s defiance becomes legend. He paves the way for others like Alexei Kasatonov, and Vladimir Krutov (though they still bear scars)
Fetisov’s NHL move is a climactic moment.
“Red Army” covers the grueling training regimes and on-ice strategies Russia is known for.
But the doc also offers a rare look at the Soviet style of hockey – a beautiful, balletic game that contrasted sharply with the NHL’s style.
The doc also explores the innovative coaching methods of Anatoly Tarasov, the father of Russian hockey, highlighting his emphasis on creativity, teamwork, and the famous “five-man unit” theory.
You can rent it from Amazon, Apple and Microsoft right now. Check https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/red-army-theatrical-trailer for the current options.
10) Road to the NHL Winter Classic
A great look at the NHL from 2010 to 2024!
Back in 2010, the NHL teamed up with HBO to create a four-part docuseries called 24/7: Road to the NHL Winter Classic.
This series was a big deal because it gave HBO exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the teams gearing up for the 2011 Winter Classic.
The series was such a hit that HBO decided to run it again in 2012 and 2014.
Then in 2015, the NHL switched things up by partnering with Epix for the next three Winter Classics.
They kept the same Road to the NHL Winter Classic branding for 2015 and 2016, but in 2017, they tweaked it to Road to the NHL Outdoor Classics to include the NHL Centennial Classic as part of the buildup.
By 2018, the NHL decided to take control of the series’ distribution. Instead of sticking with a single network, they spread the episodes across their broadcast partners.
Plus, fans could catch each episode on NHL.com and the league’s social media pages.
From 2010 to 2020, Ross Greenburg was the mastermind behind the series, producing it in collaboration with the NHL.
But starting in 2021, NHL Studios took over production with Steve Mayer at the helm and Jay Nelson and Steve Stern stepping in as producers.
The series saw a big change in 2022. Instead of full-length episodes, Road to the Winter Classic was trimmed down to five- to eight-minute segments that aired during the NHL on TNT postgame show.
This time around, the season finale skipped the usual game highlights. Episodes were also available on Bleacher Report’s YouTube page.
For 2023, the series didn’t make a return, but in 2024, the NHL brought back Road to the NHL Winter Classic with four half-hour episodes.
The twist?
They decided to leave out the game highlights, focusing more on the lead-up to the event. The production was handled by Radan Films and NHL Productions.
You can watch 4 episodes of “Road to the NHL Winter Classic” on HBO Max at https://play.max.com/show/2bdba833-9f32-44cf-bd44-eabaff4fb0da
Sorry, but I don’t see anywhere else to watch the other episodes.
11) Quest for the Stanley Cup
This series (from 2016 to 2023) covers the NHL playoffs.
It takes you inside the Eastern and Western Conference Finals and the Stanley Cup Final of all those years.
Narrated by the great Bill Camp, with appearances from Sidney Crosby and Corey Stoll, the show brings unfiltered access to locker rooms, huddles, and the high-stakes drama on and off the ice.
It’s got real talk and tension (mature audiences only!) that define the playoffs.
I see 8 episodes from Season 1 here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtG0ziZx9x8&list=PLaU3riGMBDvIJgLxKuXZKnN8oChnJlPJz — but I dont’ see any other ways to watch this series.
12) The Last Gladiators
I dig the good old days of no helmet, bare knuckle, bench-clearing brawls as much as any hockey purist.
Alex Gibney’s tight 95-minute gut punch “The Last Gladiators” in 2011 throws the spotlight on NHL enforcers like Chris “Knuckles” Nilan, Tony Twist and Donald Brashear
These were hard dudes who cracked helmets and faces at a time when teams carried bruisers for retaliation.
Nilan, known for his formidable presence on the ice, is the central figure.
The doc traces his journey from a Boston neighborhood to the Montreal Canadiens. It captures his rise to notoriety, marked by over 3,000 penalty minutes – a testament to his role as an enforcer.
Gibney also shows how cats like Marty McSorley would turn a game into UFC on ice after a questionable hit on Gretzky or Lemieux.
I’m talking stitches, knuckle fractures, rivers of blood – no disrespect to todays athletes but this wasn’t exactly two minutes for hugging!
Yet for all the “Slap Shot” glory, we see these warriors in post-career hell.
Addiction, bankruptcy, neurological damage…these are sad falls for once feared gladiators like Nilan.
Maybe old hockey men saw “no harm, no foul” but Gibney argues the league turned a blind eye while goons got carted off on stretchers.
Seeing Knuckles and other battered vets struggling years later, you reconsider throwing those gloves off so freely.
A must-watch piece of hockey history – but hard seeing our former heroes pay the price so heavy.
Watch the “The Last Gladiators” for free:
- in English on Bilibili (a Chinese version of YouTube) at https://www.bilibili.com/video/BV1Na4y1471d/
- in French on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHuv8eMxi0s (unfortunately, this one doesn’t have subtitles).
- The first 29 minutes and 17 seconds are also free on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dPrZHFiIbw
Thanks to Fire Islanders Rich Wilde and Brad Brown for first pointing this doc out to me.
13) Of Miracles and Men (30 for 30)
I know what you’re thinking: “Miracle on Ice” doc?
But here’s the sneakily delicious conceit that hooked me on “Of Miracles and Men” – it tells the Lake Placid story from the other side of the ice.
That’s right, this is the long-awaited look at the juggernaut Soviet squad that seemed destined for gold before running into Herb Brooks’ band of shaggy college kids.
Getting into the heads of the stoic Reds sheds a whole new light on the Glorious Amateur Upset.
Turns out, this “Miracle” was more like a full-on catastrophe for the formulaic, machine-like USSR team.
We see the uber-disciplined Soviets train year-round in soul-crushing Siberia under Czar Viktor Tikhonov.
Meanwhile, the loosey-goosey Yanks cram halves of pizza between periods.
Yet somehow, the Soviets can’t crack Mike Eruzione and Co.
It’s like watching The Terminator perplexed by Jeff Spicoli.
Along with the usual highlight reel moments, we get crazy insights from behind the Iron Curtain.
Secret KGB codes! Broken ankles masked from the Politburo! Smuggled contraband from the NHL!
This baby has it all, and by the end, you’ll be humming the Soviet anthem and asking Siri to find you some borscht.
An instant classic for hockey nerds that finally gives the other side of Lake Placid its long-deserved props. Red Army ain’t nothing to mess with!
Watch “Of Miracles and Men” on Disney+. There might be other streaming options here: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/of-miracles-and-men
14) Names on the Cup
“Names on the Cup” actually slaps takes that iconic 35-pound trophy and uses it as a puck-shaped time machine to let hockey greats tell their stories of Stanley Cup glory right to the camera.
No stuffy Ken Burns business here—we get Bobby Orr floating across the ice on that gimpy knee after 1970’s Cup clincher.
The Golden Jet relives his Broadway days, Mahovlich awakens Maple Leaf ghosts, even lesser-names like the Hansons boast hard about hoisting the hardware.
John Scott describes tallying a Cup-winner as a Blackhawk scrubeenie back in the day!
There’s the usual parade of Canadiens, Oilers and Islanders from the sport’s dynasty days.
But by featuring the unsung heroes of hockey history too, this doc captures the true magic that makes Stanley’s Mug unlike any championship trophy out there.
Kiefer Sutherland narrates.
Watch the full “Names on the Cup” for free on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYkeSDr4D2s
15) Summit on Ice
“Summit on Ice” is the historic 8-game series between Russia and Canada back in ’72.
You think the U.S. was the only ones with a rivalry with The Red Army?
Turns out the hockey hunks up North didn’t always get along with those Siberian sled dogs overseas.
So back when sideburns ran wild, officials set up an international showcase to prove Cold War dominance, one wicked wrister at a time.
On the Russian side, legends like baby-faced Valeri Kharlamov get the call from Mother Russia herself to don the CCCP.
Meanwhile, Team Canada ices an All-Star squad packed with mutton-chopped MVPs like Phil Esposito, who looks like an Italian mob enforcer when he’s not potting goals.
What follows is a clash of cultures, ideologies, styles – think Miracle on Ice times 5 if Herb Brooks and Viktor Tikhonov dropped acid together.
Watch “Summit on Ice” for free on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQcTQ7Z5SUY
16) Un jeu si simple
28 minute doc short from 1966 (directed by Gilles Groulx)
“Un jeu si simple,” the 1966 gem from Gilles Groulx, is hockey in its rawest form.
No glitz, just the grind.
Set in the ’60s, this doc shadows the Montreal Canadiens – hockey’s royalty, but here, they’re just guys on ice.
Imagine peeking behind the Canadiens’ curtain in the ’60s.
You’ve got Jean Béliveau, Henri Richard – legends, sure, but Groulx shows them as regular Joes. They lace up, they practice, they sweat. It’s the everyday, the routine, stripped of glamour.
Groulx’s lens is subtle, no dramatic frills. It’s the clink of pucks, the whoosh of skates, the chatter in the locker room.
This isn’t just a look back; it’s a step into the rhythm of classic hockey.
It’s like a time machine to the ’60s NHL.
No flashy highlights, just pure, unadulterated hockey. It’s a meditation on the sport, capturing the essence of what makes hockey, well, hockey.
For hockey nuts, this film is a throwback treasure. For the casual viewer, it’s a slice of sports history, showing how a game can be both simple and profound.
“Un jeu si simple” isn’t just about the Canadiens or the ’60s; it’s about the timeless spirit of hockey.
Watch it for free on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7urKfem3UKY (it’s in French with French sub-titles as default but if you click Settings icon (the gear looking thing), then “sub-titles” and then “auto-translate”, you can pick English or language of choice).
17) Valiant
“Valiant” (2019) covers the extraordinary first season of the Vegas Golden Knights.
They’re the NHL team that stunned everyone by reaching the Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural year.
Against the backdrop of the October 1, 2017 mass shooting, this doc (1 hour 34 minutes) captures the powerful bond formed between the team and the city of Las Vegas.
Directed by Cruz Angeles (known for Don’t Let Me Drown and ESPN’s 30-for-30: Fernando Nation), the documentary takes you from the moment the franchise was awarded to Bill Foley, through the player drafts, and into the heart of a city and team transformed by tragedy and triumph.
You can watch Valiant on Prime Video, Peacock, Fubo (with subscription); for free on Hoopla (requires library/university ID); Tubi, PlutoTV and freevee (free but with ads). Check here for all the streaming options: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/valiant-2019
18) Summit ’72
“Summit ’72’ is one of the most intense showdowns in sports history.
It aired in 2022 on CBC, marking the 50th anniversary of the epic 1972 Canada-USSR Summit Series.
Directed by Ravi Baichwal, Dave Bidini, Nicholas de Pencier, and Robert MacAskill, “Summit ’72” has the stamp of approval from the 1972 Team Canada players themselves.
That means it’s got the goods—unrestricted access to official game tapes, a goldmine of archival footage, and never-before-seen 16mm film restored in 4K.
I love when films upgrade the quality!
This isn’t just a recap.
It’s the definitive story of an eight-game ‘Super Summit’ that became a Cold War battleground.
National pride, politics, and ideology all collided on the ice.
You get the full story—how Canada’s relationship with hockey evolved, how the political climate of the time turned a sports rivalry into a proxy war, and how the seeds of change planted in ’72 are still growing today.
The only place I see to stream “Summit ’72” is on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AaMKjXgE3HI ($3.99 for rental and $9.99 to buy when I last checked (August 14, 2024).
19) Pond Hockey (2008)
In the frost-bitten realm of Minneapolis, Minnesota, the documentary “Pond Hockey” skates onto the scene with the grace of a Zamboni on a mission.
Directed by the puck-savvy Tommy Haines in 2008, this 82-minute cinematic excursion into the heart of outdoor hockey is as refreshing as a slap shot of winter air.
What truly sets “Pond Hockey” apart is its roster of interviewees. Wayne Gretzky, the Great One himself, and Sidney Crosby, the Kid who probably knows a thing or two about ice, chime in with their wisdom as does Patrick Kane.
It’s like having Picasso and Van Gogh discussing finger painting at a kindergarten art show.
The star of the show, however, isn’t a person; it’s a place. Lake Nokomis transforms into a sprawling, icy stage for the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships.
This event is the Stanley Cup for those who prefer their hockey with a side of frostbite.
Throughout the doc, we’re treated to a blend of heartwarming tales, old-timer wisdom, and ice-level action that makes you want to grab a stick and join in.
In the end, “Pond Hockey” reminds us why we fell in love with the game in the first place.
Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or someone who thinks icing is just for cakes, this documentary is worth your time.
So lace up those skates, pull on your mittens, and dive into this icy gem. Just remember to bring a thermos of hot cocoa – it gets pretty chilly out there on Lake Nokomis.
Watch it on:
20) Untold: Crime & Penalties
“Untold: Crime & Penalties” (on Netflix) is like “The Sopranos” meets “Slap Shot”
Picture this: mob-tied garbage disposal mogul (James Galante (rumored to be the inspiration for Tony Soprano) goes to prison.
He gives the pro hockey team he owns (The Danbury Trashers) to his 17-year-old son A. J.
Director Chapman Way dives deep into how A.J., with zero experience but a truckload of bravado, turned the Trashers into a notorious team.
Known for their aggressive playing style, the Trashers were more than just a hockey team; they were an embodiment of A.J.’s unorthodox vision of the sport.
What makes “Crime & Penalties” stand out is its colorful cast of characters.
From enforcers on the ice to the Galantes’ dealings off it, the documentary is a character study in ambition, loyalty, and the darker sides of the pursuit of the American dream.
The doc’s real hook? It’s packed with unbelievable but true stories – think brawls, FBI raids, and the kind of drama you can’t make up.
It’s a no-holds-barred look at a team that lived on the edge, both in the rink and out.
Stream “Untold: Crime & Penalties” on Netflix at https://www.netflix.com/title/81026438.
21) Willie
“Willie,” , the 2019 doc directed by Laurence Mathieu-Leger, is the story of Willie O’Ree.
He’s the trailblazer who became the NHL’s first black player.
This doc is a powerful story of breaking barriers in a sport known for its lack of diversity.
Some highlights:
- Historic Debut: The documentary spotlights Willie O’Ree’s debut in 1958 with the Boston Bruins, a landmark event in sports history.
- Behind the Scenes: “Willie” delves into O’Ree’s life before and after his NHL debut. The doc explores his upbringing in Fredericton, New Brunswick, his early love for hockey, and the challenges he faced, including racial prejudice and a significant eye injury.
- Trailblazer’s Journey: Despite facing racism and discrimination, he persisted, paving the way for future generations of players of color in hockey.
- Impact Beyond the Ice: O’Ree’s influence extends beyond his playing career. The doc highlights his role as an ambassador for the NHL’s diversity initiatives.
- Cultural Context: The documentary places O’Ree’s achievements in the broader context of the civil rights movement/
Watch “Willie” for free (with ads) on PlexTV or on Fubo or Peacock with subscription. All streaming options should be here: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/willie
22) Ice Guardians
“Ice Guardians,” clocking in at 108 minutes (directed by Brett Harvey) brings us up close with enforcer legends of the NHL like:
- Dave Brown: One of the originals, racking up over 2,400 penalty minutes and fearless against anyone.
- Joey Kocur: The record holder for most penalty minutes in a single season (264), infamous for his roughhousing.
- Todd Fedoruk: A 2,000+ penalty minute “goon” from the early 2000s, known for his brutal brawls.
- Brian McGrattan: Another dedicated enforcer with over 1,500 penalty minutes and several memorable fights.
- Dave Schultz: Arguably the most feared enforcer ever, playing in a brutal era with unforgiving fighting style.
- Wendel Clark: A “scoring enforcer” with 400 goals and fierce protecting skills, not afraid to throw down when needed.
- George Parros: A “modern” enforcer, combining fighting with over 100 career goals, blurring the lines of the role.
- Zenon Konopka: A devastating puncher and intimidating presence, accumulating over 2,000 penalty minutes.
These interviews aren’t just soundbites; they’re confessions, insights, and reflections from the men who lived the life.
You’ll also get interviews with NHL hall of famers Chris Chelios, Jarome Iginla, Bobby Hull, and Brett Hull.
Watch “Ice Guardians” for free on Kanopy (with library card) or on Amazon Prime Video, Tubi (with ads), Plex (with ads), Roku (with ads) or Cineverse (with ads). All these options should be here: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/ice-guardians.
23) Broad Street Bullies (2010)
“Broad Street Bullies”, part of HBO’s “Sports of the 20th Century”, is the story of the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers of 1974 to 1976.
Directed by George Roy, the doc takes viewers back to a time when hockey was tough, rough and often lawless.
Players like Bobby Clarke, Dave Schultz, Reggie Leach and Bernie Parent are profiled.
Can a team led by toughness win a Stanley Cup?
There gonna need talent too.
Recruiting the underrated Bobby Clarke is a huge gamble for the Flyers.
And then “Schultzy” (whose nicknames were “The Hammer” and “The Hunter) comes to town.
Some think that the Flyers were primarily a tough team.
But, as Phil Esposito mentions in the doc,:
“The Flyers could not have won the Stanley Cup a couple of times if they did not have the talent”
Will “The Hammer” and company win the Stanley Cup?
Watch and see!
Watch HBO’s “Broad Street Bullies” for free on.YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MugVtTYDLcQ
Some people claim that “Broad Street Bullies” is on Netflix — but there wrong as I check it now (August 14, 2024).
Strangely, it’s also not on HBO Max (even though HBO created it!).
24) Tough Guy: The Bob Probert Story (2019)
Did you think I was done with the enforcers?
“Tough Guy: The Bob Probert Story,” released in 2019 (directed by Geordie Day) profiles one of the NHL’s most legendary enforcers, Bob Probert.
Through archival and gameplay footage spanning 1983-2002, yjod 85 minute doc showcases Probert’s renowned strength and fighting ability during his 16-season career.
As an enforcer Probert accrued 3,300 penalty minutes with the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks.
The doc features interviews with Probert’s family, friends, and former teammates like Joe Kocur, Kris Draper, and Chris Chelios.
It candidly covers Probert’s struggles with substance abuse, revealing details about a 1989 arrest for cocaine possession and multiple trips to rehabilitation centers.
Probert died in 2010 at age 45 from heart failure. The documentary ultimately profiles an enforcer reconciling talent and turmoil in a dangerous sport that exacted a steep price.
Watch “Tough Guy: The Bob Probert Story on Amazon Prime Video or the following (with ads): Tubi, PlutoTV, Freevee, Plex and Vudu. You can also rent it on Apple TV, YouTube, Amazon and others. Check here for all streaming options: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/tough-guy-the-bob-probert-story
25) Open Heart
Henrik Lundqvist isn’t just a hockey legend—he’s a bona fide icon.
Born on March 2, 1982, in Sweden, Lundqvist dominated the NHL for 15 seasons with the New York Rangers, earning the nickname “King Henrik” for his incredible goaltending skills.
Before he took over Madison Square Garden, Lundqvist was already a star in Sweden with Frölunda HC, winning the Honken Trophy three years straight.
By 2005, he’d also snagged the Guldpucken (Golden Puck) and Guldhjälmen (Golden Helmet), solidifying his status as Sweden’s top goaltender.
On October 9, 2020, Lundqvist signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Washington Capitals, ready to bring his magic to D.C.
But by December 17, he announced he’d miss the season due to an irregular heartbeat.
That led to to open-heart surgery in January 2021.
Lundqvist made a brief return to practice in February, showing his signature resilience.
But by April 11, he decided not to return to the Capitals’ lineup.
And on August 20, 2021, he officially retired from professional hockey.
The New York Rangers didn’t waste time honoring their legend, retiring his iconic number 30 during the 2021–22 season.
In 2023, Netflix released “Open Heart”, a documentary directed by Jonathan Hock that dives into Lundqvist’s struggle to return to hockey after surgery.
Watch “Open Heart” on Netflix at https://www.netflix.com/title/81746812
Hockey Documentaries on Netflix
Unfortunately, Netflix only carries 2 hockey documentaries as I write this (August 14, 2024): “Untold: Crimes & Penalties” and “Open Heart” (see above).
Netflix seems to have lost out on the F1 “Drive to Survive” docuseries version of the NHL (see the announcement below from the NHL and Box to Box Films which is instead working with Amazon Prime Video.
Netflix does carry 2 scripted hockey films: the classic comedy “Slapshot” as well as the more recent hockey enforcer film called “Goon: Last of the Enforcers” — I haven’t watched that (it gets a crappy rating of 5.8 on IMDB so it’s low in my queue).
Hockey Docs Coming in 2024
Prime Video Docuseries on NHL (Unnamed)
On June 6, 2024, NHL Productions and Box to Box Films (“Drive to Survive”, “Full Swing”, “Break Point”) announced that they will launch a new NHL documentary series exclusively on Prime Video.
The docuseries promises to follow the journeys of NHL superstars like:
- Edmonton Oilers’ Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl
- Florida Panthers’ Matthew Tkachuk
- New York Rangers’ Jacob Trouba
- Boston Bruins’ David Pastrnak and Jeremy Swayman
- Vancouver Canucks’ Quinn Hughes
- Vegas Golden Knights’ Jack Eichel
- Toronto Maple Leafs’ William Nylander
- Nashville Predators’ Filip Forsberg
- Colorado Avalanche’s Gabriel Landeskog
It’ll include exclusive access to their lives on and off the ice, including covering the 2024 Stanley Cup Final between the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers.
The show will “embed” with McDavid and Tkachuk in particular.
It’s Executive-Produced by James Gay-Rees (Box to Box) and Ross Bernard (NHL) and Daniel Amigone.
Release Date: “Fall of 2024”
Looks like fun!
Thanks for reading!
-Rob Kelly