Review – Mystery, Alaska

Though on the surface this is a “hockey movie,” you don’t have to really love the sport to get a kick out of it. The cast of quirky, small-town Alaskans (headed by Russell Crowe) occasionally come across as a little contrived, as does the vaguely Local Hero-esque plot revolving around an amateur hockey team taking on the New York Rangers. The script falls victim to its share of sports movie clichés, but it also manages more than its share of clever moments. If heart-warming gives you heartburn, stay clear. But if you can stand the jock flick conventions then this should prove to be a pleasant viewing experience. Mildly amusing