In an attempt to have his freedom, upon being arrested for the accusation of driving while he is drunk, Gordon Bombay, a young successful lawyer, has to train a team of kids, playing hockey, the thing that brings terrible for him and challenges him, according to his bad experience with hockey with his rude trainer.
Those not yet wise to formulaic pablum are likely to enjoy this ice hockey kiddie ensemble comedy. But their older escorts might want to bring a novel and a flashlight, or a Walkman or portable television with earphones.
I can understand why these unknown child actors were involved with this movie but as for the grown-ups, all I can figure is that they were each fulfilling some kind of community service obligation.
The film is remarkably oblivious to the fact that if the team weren't hell-bent on a championship, young moviegoers would be significantly less interested in its adventures.
eFilmCritic.com
July 27, 2002
Kids play hockey. Part 1.
Cinema Crazed
August 01, 2014
A pleasing and entertaining sports film, and one that can be appreciated by a wider audience thanks to its solid writing, and strong performances.
I chose to work as a cashier at a gas station over being an extra in this. I chose wisely.
Chicago Sun-Times
January 01, 2000
It must be said that this movie is sweet and innocent, and that at a certain level it might appeal to younger kids. I doubt if its ambitions reach much beyond that.
Steven Brill, who has a small role in the film, constructed the screenplay much as one would put together some of those particleboard bookcases from Ikea.
Harmless enough, but its schematic retread of a screenplay and its lethargic acting detracts from the unassuming, passable entertainment it might have been.
