When it comes to the subject of community, David E. Kelley--the prolific writer-producer behind television's
The Practice and
Ally McBeal--falls somewhere on a continuum between directors Howard Hawks and Robert Benton. While Hawks's professional characters are bound by a knowledge of how to do what they do even if they don't know why, Benton's people, professional or not, have long ago substituted their own eccentric reasons for that elusive why. Thus we get the kind of in-house, oddball rituals sandwiched between passages of actual work on
Ally, and the affectionately entangled personal and professional ties between small-town folks in Kelley's earlier TV series
Picket Fences.
Kelley's script for Mystery, Alaska (co-authored by Sean O'Byrne) takes that level of eccentricity to a geographical and spiritual extreme. The film revives the hackneyed Rocky formula, setting a lopsided hockey match within a remote, self-contained hamlet where the members of a tiny population all have to wear multiple hats and still keep neighborly ties intact. The story concerns the town's chief source of identity and pride: so-called "Saturday games," in which local men divide into teams and play pond hockey for the locals. When a prodigal son (Hank Azaria) of Mystery shows up with a television network offer to bring the New York Rangers in for a televised match against the homegrown team, the town fathers agree. Coaching falls to the town sheriff, John Biebe (Russell Crowe), an admirable man and a longtime player recently bumped from the team. John, however, doesn't want the job: everyone knows the real coach in those parts is Judge Burns (Burt Reynolds), but he wants no part of it either. All of that changes after a sad tragedy forces everyone to reevaluate their positions and pull together in order to beat the Rangers.
Following the success of Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, Jay Roach proves to be an able director of drama, swift action, and low-key, character-driven comedy not unlike that in Benton's Nobody's Fool. He has to deal with some pure corn at the end, but Roach pulls it off and guides the actors to and through far better moments. --Tom Keogh
1 Slapshot, Miracle, Mystery
If you want a description of Mystery, take a look at some of the other reviews (but I'd discount the ones by the adolescent hockey dudes),
If you love hockey, particularly if you play on a recreational or adult team you'll appreciate this movie. It was much better than I expected, and funny as well.
I've added Mystery to my library which includes the classic, Slapshot, and the historical, Miracle.
2 Great idea for a screen play, but...
The story, most of the acting and the scenery were all very good! However, the totally horrendous skating ability of one Russell Crowe was in such glaringly sharp contract to the rest of the picture that it ruined the movie! This is not a matter of opinion folks, Mr. Crowe CANNOT ice skate and if you cannot ice skate, then you cannot play hockey and you really should not play the so-called leader and captain of a hockey team that the movie is based upon. For example, it's one thing to overlook some far-fetched scenes in a sci-fi flick for the purpose of provoking thought or lending to the overall theme of the movie. But this you cannot overlook...the star hockey player that cannot ice skate in a movie about a hockey team with him as the main character? No freakn' way!
Sorry Russell, you make one hell of a Gladiator in which you were awesome in...but a hockey player? Please leave the hockey playing to actors that have played hockey or at least can ice skate very well thank you very much!
3 Home-Town Spirit...Great job by Crowe
Cute little movie about Alaskan small town community bonds together for their men when they host a hockey game against, incredibly, The New York Rangers! This is the breakout/sleeper role I remember Russell Crowe in, he plays captain of the Mystery, Alaska Team who don't really have a chance except for all that home-town spirit on their side and of course, they are used to the -20 degree weather! Has that 'northern exposure-feel' to it. Not a 5 star but, definitely a 4. See this movie and you may just want to see it again!
4 No Mystery - Just Great Moviemaking!
Mystery Alaska was one of the best comedies to come along in 1999. In the best ensemble film fashion a truly eclectic cast forms the very core of the story that is Mystery, Alaska. Hank Azaria turns in a spectacular performance as "the ugly duckling" - a character not too popular who escaped the town for fame and fortune in television sports. He garners the small town some big time noteriety when the announces that the New York Rangers will challenge a game against the locals pond hockey team. Typical small town chaos ensues as all prepare for the big event.
Russell Crowe, Burt Reynolds, Lolita Davidovich, Ron Eldard, Colm Meaney, Mary McCormack all turn in fine performances contributing nicely to the oddities inherent in any small town.
While the story can seem a bit forced formulaic, David Kelly's script and Jay Roach's directing bring a freshness and satisfaction that made this one of 1999's best sleepers.
A most watchable feel good movie.
5 TEAM SPIRIT AND MORE
What makes MYSTERY ALASKA such a joyful movie experience is its heart, and the remarkably good cast. In the vein of such films as ROCKY, the story of the Mystery Alaska team facing the New York Rangers is merely a means to the end. What this movie is really about is pride, loyalty and the sense of courage to go against seemingly unreachable odds and come out with your pride and honor intact. This is not a "Russell Crowe" movie, although the Oscar winner is superb as John Biebe. This is a group effort and the cast has some shining moments: Ron Eldard (The Runner) plays Skank, the team's sexually active member, who is screwing the mayor's wife (Lolita Davidovich). In a memorable scene, Eldard confronts the Mayor (Colm Meany) and apologizes to him, with a sense of sincerity you hadn't seen before. One expects Meany to throw a punch or yell and scream; watch to find out how it plays out. Lolita Davidovich and Meany also have a tense but touching moment when she tells him why she slept with Eldard; Crowe and Mary McCormack as his wife share several touching scenes that show how deep a love can go; Burt Reynolds as the gruff judge/coach has a shining moment when he addresses the townspeople in a trial of a player who shot a visiting department store magnate in the foot; Maury Chaykin as Bailey Pruitt has key scenes and a very poignant one in the courtroom; Judith Ivey as Reynolds's wife has a wonderful moment when she's discussing sex with her teenage daughter (Rachel Wilson). The movie is full of nice scenes, and refreshing changes of pace thanks to the screenplay by David E. Kelley (Picket Fences). Even Hank Azaria as the homeboy producer avoids the expected cliches of his role---one can tell he really did love Beibe's wife.
A real surprise of a movie, one that should entertain and make you feel good.
6 Slapshot Meets Bad News Bears Meets Our Town Meets Fargo
"Mystery, Alaska" juggles quite a few cliches, but it does so with wonderful charm and a constant nudge in the ribs.
A small town in the frozen North of Alaska, Mystery loves its hockey beyond all reason. The famed "Saturday Game," played each week with religious fervor, has been brought to the pages of Sports Illustrated by a Mysterian (Hank Azaria) who has left the town for bigger and better things -- although it may be because everyone in town says he plays hockey "like a homosexual" (this is an example of the surprisingly frank and profane language Mysterians like to use, which can be jarring in what is otherwise a sweet movie).
The team, led by John Biebe (Russell Crowe in a nice understated performance), is your typical bunch of loveable small-town lugs, each given either one defining characteristic (babe hound, son struggling with sense of inadequacy, hot young prodigy nervous about playing with the "big boys," etc.) or is mere entertaining window dressing. Otherwise content with the local fame brought by playing in the Saturday game, the guys are exhilirated and terrified to learn that the NHL wants the New York Rangers (at the time, a good team!) to visit Mystery to play the locals as a publicity stunt.
Biebe, who is also the town sheriff, is our lens into this quirky town going through this tumultuous development. A fixture of the Saturday Game for years, he is surprisingly demoted and asked to coach. One of his best players 'accidentally' shoots a representative from Price World, a Wal-Mart clone. Another player cuckolds the mayor of the town. And Azaria returns to make overtures to Biebe's wife. The tranquil little burg has never seen such excitement.
All of this unfolds in a lighthearted manner and builds to the "big game" against the Rangers -- which is only brought about by the untimely demise of a lovable local resident.
The game is handled very well, with the proper "underdog" notes played, but not overly so. The hockey action flows quickly, and feels like a game rather than someone filming a pretend game (a common problem in sports movies -- the action is not realistic enough). One problem - we rarely see Russell Crowe actually skate, which undercuts his status as the team leader and reminds us that he's a Hollywood star in a hockey film.
Perhaps the movie's most inspired moment is the mayor's unique way of invoking Mystery's home-ice advantage during the national anthem (with a hilarious cameo by Little Richard - yes, you heard me). Watch also for a great cameo by Mike Meyers, who has worked with director Jay Roach on the Austin Powers films.
In the end, all loose ends are tied up nicely . . . and perhaps too conveniently for some. Nothing in the movie is a great shock, but that's life in a small town for you.
While in many respects a good family movie, the language and humor is definitely not for younger viewers. And the "romantic" overtures of Skank, the team horn-dog, can be quite shocking to some. Still, a good movie and a fun time.
7 A Movie With a Heart As Big As All Outdoors
If you're interested in this movie, it's probably because it stars Russell Crowe. But if you thought that was the only reason to see this film, have I got some good news for you.
Mystery, Alaska, population 633, is a town obsessed with hockey. From the time they're children, every Mystery boy's dream is to be a member of the town's unnamed hockey team in the weekly "Saturday game." Through a sequence of events only slightly farfetched, the Mystery team is scheduled for an exhibitition game with the visiting New York Rangers, an event of only slightly less importance to this hockey-struck town than the Second Coming. One of the many great things about this movie is the town's reaction to news of the impending game. They're not awestruck by the Rangers, the visiting demi-gods; their first reaction is, "Can we win?" If Mystery plays, they intend to win. The Rangers might be big league American hockey, but Mystery has faith in its boys. It knows they're great even if the rest of the world doesn't.
The movie is about how the town and its inhabitants are affected by the upcoming game. The game itself, though perfectly realized in the film, is almost incidental. Colm Meaney (late of Star Trek: The Next Generattion and Deep Space Nine) plays the town mayor who discovers his wife (Lolita Davidovich) is sleeping with a member of the hockey team. Hank Azaria is Charles Danner, the home town boy who was never respected growing up, became a reporter out in the great big world, brings back to Mystery the NEW YORK RANGERS....and finds he's still not respected. Donna Biebe (Mary McCormack) is the girl Charles loved in high school, now married to team captain and town sheriff John Biebe (Crowe). Burt Reynolds, who still has it, and in spades, after all these years, plays town judge Walter Burns. Walter as a young man wasn't good enough for the Saturday game, a fact he's never forgotten and a source of conflict with his son, who's made the current team. But Walter was good enough for minor league hockey in the lower 48, making him the perfect choice to coach the team for and through the big game. He's the only person in town who really understands North American hockey. For his own reasons, he refuses.
Then there's Russell Crowe as John Biebe. The big game comes at the tail end of John's career. After 13 years in the Saturday game - a Mystery record - he's cut from the team just before news of the Rangers' visit hits town. And the town fathers, whose most solemn duties involve administering the hockey team, don't want him back. A man of quiet strength but not good at expressing his softer emotions, John doesn't know how to tell his wife how much he loves her when he sees Charles flirting, and her flirting back. The way he figures out finally to do that is both inventive and touching.
Though this movie "stars" Russell Crowe, it's not a star driven vehicle, it's an ensemble piece. And while Russell is wonderful as John Biebe, for my money the best performance in the film is Ron Eldard as "Skank" Marden, Mystery hockey player and dedicated fornicator. The scene where Skank appears on the mayor's doorstep one frozen night to apologize to the man he's cuckolded is, I think, the highlight of the film. It's fascinating to watch the unexpected decency, sensitivity, and dignity emerge from what til then seemed an indecent, shallow, undignified man.
The hockey game footage is convincing - thrilling, actually. Russell learned to ice skate for this role, and, with the help of some careful editing, looks pretty darn good on the ice. Numerous Rangers play themselves.
Mystery, Alaska has been called "Rocky On Ice" and that's a fair description. Yes, the film deals with a hockey game, but that's not what makes it special. This isn't a dumb, gimmicky, braindead hockey flick like The Mighty Ducks. It's a character driven, imaginative, well-acted drama....that happens to work within the framework of a story about a hockey game. By the time the Rangers arrive in Mystery you're totally on the home team's side, rooting for them because you've come to care for the Mystery boys, and respect the sacrifices they, and the town as a whole, have made for this game. Like Rocky, Mystery, Alaska shows you don't need a huge budget to make a good movie when you have a great script, solid direction, good actors, and the film possesses that quality indefinable but impossible to mistake or ignore: "heart."
So, can a team of pond hockey players from Mystery, Alaska REALLY beat the New York Rangers? Watch this movie and find out.
8 One of Russell's Best
I loved this movie. It was one of my first Russell Crowe movies. I am not a sports fan but even if you are not you can enjoy this movie. The romance and humor that flows through it, is wonderful.
9 more then just hockey
this movie is a story of more then just hockey its a story of life in a small town where the people only have a few escapes. This movie tells the ups and downs of this small town of Mystery and how a game against the Rangers changes their world. If your into hockey you'll love this movie if you are not you'll still like it. Rachel Wilson (Burt Reynolds daughter in the movie) is HOT.
10 Ryan Northcott
See this movie for Ryan Northcott who plays "Stevie" he is so hot. The scene in the snow plow was great.
11 "We're a hockey town"
As a professional hockey player and someone who has loved the game for over 30 years... this movie is all hockey. Superb acting from all... Great hockey throughout. Over the years, I've heard, "Oh, Slap-Shot is the ultimate hockey movie." Hog-wash! ... Mystery Alaska should be remembered as the all-time greatest hockey movie, and being that hockey is the all-time greatest sport... Mystery Alaska is by far the all time greatest sports movie!!! .
12 Mystery is no mystery
Mystery Alaska is a saturday afternoon, popcorn movie the whole family can enjoy. It had the same feel as when I used to watch Northern Exposure.Alot of quirky,funny people who's lives revolve around the simple things in life.This one being hockey.Good solid cast. Russell is easy on the eyes too!
13 The Pride Of Mystery.....
This review refers to the Hollywood Pictures DVD edition of "Mystery,Alaska"....
The small close-knit town of Mystery, Alaska(pop.633), is obssesed with the game of Hockey. Everyone in the town is invovled. There's even a committee of the important men of the town whose sole job it is to decide who will be on the team in the all important Saturday games.There in their own little niche of the world, they go about their business, live their quirky little lives and all revolving around their hockey team.All that is about to change though...
An ex-Mysterian who has moved to New York and is now a sports promoter has lined up the game of a lifetime for this little town. They will play the New York Rangers in an exhibition game right there in Mystery.Will it turn into more than an exhibition game for these everyday people? The team is good but how good are they? Can they even score against the Rangers? What will it do to their pride if the Rangers annihlate them? You'll be smiling all the way through with these outlandish characters in this funny yet poignant story, as you find out.
The film has a tremendous cast. It stars Russell Crowe, Hank Azaria and Burt Reynolds.(Also look for a great cameo in the commentators booth!) It also includes Lolita Davidovich,Maury Chaykin, Mary McCormack and Colm Meany.A wonderful screenplay by David E. Kelley and Sean O'Byrne, beautiful photography by Peter Deming and expertly directed by Jay Roach all add to the enjoyment of this film.
It is presented on the DVD in the theatrical widescreen aspect of 2.35.1 and is beautifully transfered.I noticed on the technical information on the product page of this DVD, it has Dolby 2.0 for the sound, but you'll be happy to find out that it is actually in the 5.1, so those with a home theatre system will get the full effect of every slap shot! There's a short featurette on the filming, and it has closed captions for hearing impaired viewers. These are real nice, I checked them out and they are nice and clear and below the film(in the black bar portion under the widescreen).
The people of Mystery will melt your heart as the heat up the ice......have fun...
14 The Best Movie You Never Heard Of
"Mystery, Alaska" is probably the best movie you never heard of. For starters, its cast is incredible: Russell Crowe, Hank Azaria, Colm Meany and Burt Reynolds (to name a few) appear, and the acting is as good as the cast would make you hope.
On top of that, the story is really very good, and the script is expertly written; the movie tells the tale of a small town (Mystery, Alaska), where the central fact of life is the game of hockey. This obsession manifests itself in an event called the Saturday Game, where the town's hockey team plays teams from neighboring towns on a frozen over pond in astonishingly cold weather. But the game, and the town that depends on it for its common bond, becomes strangely manipulated by a turn of events that proposes that Mystery's team play the New York Rangers a game of hockey on the small town pond.
You don't have to be a hockey fan, or even a sports fan, to appreciate this movie. The life of this small community is magnificently portrayed, and the story promises something for everyone: drama, comedy, sports, you name it. I heard about this movie from a friend, or I never would have known it existed. After renting it, my wife and I liked it enough to go buy it, and everyone we've shown it to has loved it. I can unconditionally recommend it. Enjoy!
15 It's No Mystery That This is a Great Movie!
Mystery, Alaska is the story of a small Alaskan town that revolves around "The Saturday Game," in which locals compete in weekly hockey games. The players include the town sheriff, a grocer, an elementary school teacher, and nearly everyone in the town plays some part in the games, on or off the ice.
Conflict arises when the town's boast that "no one can beat their team on a pond" is carried off to New York by a native Mysterian, who convinces the New York Rangers to challenge the Mystery players to a match that they will never forget.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable movie for hockey lovers and even for those who know nothing about the sport (like me). It incorporates a good deal of humor amidst light-hearted drama, and is just a great story!
16 For Love of the Game
This movie should have been named "For Love of the Game", because it's about a town's love for the game of hockey and the "Saturday Game."
It takes place in a small town called Mystery, Alaska, which is surrounded by piles of snow and mountains. It's a "Hockey Town" who's entire focus is around skating and hockey. There is a hockey game played every Saturday by the ten best hockey players in town. The players are chosen by a committee which presides over the game.
The story centers around John Biebe (Russell Crowe), who gives an awarding performance as an aging hockey player who just happens to be the town's sheriff.
The conflict starts when John is described in an article featured in Sports Illustrated, as a great passer, being slow of foot and the only player without lightening speed. The article is written by the town's outcast Charlie Danner (Hank Azaria) who also happens to be his wife Donna's old boyfriend. He is suddenly dropped from the Saturday game and replaced with a young kid.
Due to the article, Charlie flies in to town baring the news that there is interest from the New York Rangers who want to play the team from Mystery, Alaska. The townspeople hold a meeting and agree to play the N. Y. Rangers. Emotions run high when as a result John is asked to coach instead of play. He also begins to get jealous when he sees his wife with Charlie.
You have to watch thhis movie to see what transpires from all of this emotion.
If you enjoy hockey you're in for some excitement as you watch the Mystery team get ready to play the N. Y. Rangers. This movie will make you want to stand up and boo the Rangers!! You get action, comedy and a little romance all rolled up into one.
17 Alaskins VS. ALL Star Hockey Team.
I like this movie it should be PG-13 and I dought My favorite Goalie Mike Ricther wouldn't allow 4 goals on a team that spent 0 time in the minors. ... I like the Mystaers jerseys and the goalies do pretty good considering it's Hollywood hockey. But, let's face it in real life The Rangers would win 11-0.
18 Hockey and Russell Crowe
Good characters and storyline. Small town hockey team faces off with a pro-hockey team that comes to town as a publicity stunt.
19 Hockey with Russell Crowe
Hockey, Russell Crowe, and interesting characters make a good movie. Story centers on a small town with an ice hockey team as its only source of entertainment. As sort of a publicity stunt, the team eventually faces off with a pro-hockey team for a game that turns into a true hockey "game." Good action throughout.
20 A Lesser Known Crowe Movie That DESERVES To Be Known
I ran across this wonderful little Russell Crowe movie shortly after seeing him in the great "Gladiator." I was in Blockbuster, locating movies for my own Crowe film festival and the cover caught my eye before I realized he was even in it. So back went the wonderful "The Insider" (filmed partially in my hometown) for another day.
I am so glad I did because "Mystery Alaska" was such a surprising discovery that I'm constantly suggesting it to friends and family, particularly to see Crowe in a role quite unlike his more famous Bud White, Maximus, Jeffrey Wigand and John Nash. Once again, the talented Aussie reveals his wide range, and the fact that he is a true actor and not simply a movie star.
This time he is not the savior of Rome, or courageous whistleblower, or multi-faceted Fifties cop, but John Biebe (Bee-be), sheriff in a tiny Alaskan town where hockey is as much a religion as college basketball is in Kentucky! For thirteen years he has been on the Mystery hockey team and played in the "Saturday game" -- made up of townsmen -- but as with many athletes, although in his thirties, he is replaced by a younger, up and rising player. On top of that blow is the return of Hank Azaria as sleazy hometown boy who got away, became a writer, and returns with a publicity stunt to bring the New York Rangers to Mystery to play the local team. (Azaria had written a Sports Illustrated article on the Mystery team, and that attracted attention). Azaria dated Crowe's wife (Mary McCormick)in high school, and Biebe's jealousy surfaces. So not only does Biebe have to accept his new role on the team, but his feelings towards his wife's old boyfriend, as well as other little incidents going on within their small town.
As he's done with other characters, Crowe gives Biebe several layers so that we see a man at a crossroads in his life. In fact, it's watching scenes with Crowe that make this movie as beautiful as the scenery! The man can express more with his facial features than most so-called actors can with a page of words: whether a smile, the glow of love in his eyes, his jealousy, his hurt, the permanent loss of a good friend. In one scene, when you see the tears and how red his eyes are, then hear the emotion in his voice, you feel his pain as well. But let's face it ladies, you can't help watching one locker room scene several times to *clears throat* study Crowe's physical talents! *bg* (Okay, he has great arms. LOL)
Seriously, the movie is a small charmer, from Crowe and Maury Chaykin (of "The Insider"), to the Canadian views portraying Alaska, to some rather humorous lines ("Women don't like to be referred to as fat mammals...") John Biebe has become one of my top three Russell Crowe characters, even more than Maximus and Bud. After seeing this movie, he may become one of yours too. I regret the DVD doesn't contain more special features but I can deal with it. Definitely pick this one up for your Crowe collection!
21 Raunchy, Quirky, Comical, Poignant, Truthful
The glistening white world of " Mystery, Alaska" presents us with a tale of a hockey town its quirky characters, and the opportunity of their local team to play the New York Rangers, presented to them by Hank Azaria's cocky sports reporter, Charles Danner, a former resident of Mystery.
Amid this pure, alabaster-looking world is a community dominated by the members of its hockey team. It's not an easy town for women to live in, and many a local lass, including the Mayor's wife, has compromised or almost compromised her virtue with the town heroes, who are full of crass fraternity hijinks and like many townsfolk, equally crass language.
Burt Reynolds gives a great performance as Judge Walter Burns, the town mentor, who taught numerous kids to skate, and who tries to keep his teenaged daughter, played by Rachel Wilson, away from the lecherous hockey players whereas Judith Ivey's Mrs. Burns seems slightly more passive about the situation, although she confronts her daughter about it at one point. Scott Grimes plays Reynolds' son who feels his future lies in hockey rather than academics.
Colm Meany hides his Irish accent well as the Mayor who is betrayed by his wife, played by Lolita Davidovitch when she sleeps with the notorious Skank Marden(Ron Eldard). The depths of betrayal don't seem to affect the couple as much as they might in real life once they come to terms with it.
Russell Crowe's mastery of the subtle, smoldering glance is not lost in his portrayal of the town Sherriff and hockey team Captain, John Biebe. Tossing his moreno-colored, chestnut- streaked mane of hair, squaring shoulders as mountainous as the Canadian scenery(which doubled for Alaska), and speaking with an accent that sounds slightly Nova Scotian, he is one of the more dignified characters in the film with one of the most solid marriages. Azaria's return to town threatens him because his wife, Donna, is Azaria's former girlfriend. Mary McCormack gives a warm-hearted, sympathetic portrayal of Donna Biebe, eventually reassuring her husband that she has no regrets about marrying him. Their reconciliation after a heated argument is poignant, coltish, and downright sexy without revealing too much flesh.
Maury Chaykin's Bailey Pruitt is the lawyer who gives his life trying to secure the hockey match when it is nearly cancelled. Michael McKean plays the wounded Price World Representative who shows us how not to behave when accidentally shot by a hockey player in a hockey town, if we want a jury to decide in our favor. Kevin Durand's Tree is the stereotypical dim-witted but kind-hearted jock. Comical moments include Megan Price's Sarah Heinz putting the disreputable Skank in his place, and Crowe's unsuccessful attempt to suppress his laughter when dealing with the case.
There are fun cameos by Little Richard and Mike Myers during the game. Perhaps the best moments of the game are when Crowe's tender family man pauses to signal "I love yous" to his wife and sons while on the ice, and flash that brilliant smile to the audience.
The outcome of the match is unsatisfyingly realistic. But when Sheriff Biebe places a puck on the grave of the man who fought to prevent the game's cancellation, a bit of foliage before the cross, pushing its way up through the relentless snow, somehow symbolises the determination of the Mystery team in the face of great odds. --A great metaphor for the citizens of Mystery within itself.
22 Excellent character-driven movie
I love hockey, and I love David E. Kelley, so it's no great surprise that I also loved "Mystery, Alaska." Russell Crowe, Hank Azaria, Colm Meaney, Ron Eldard, and Kevin Durand all turn in convincing, heart-warming performances, and the setting (in Banff) is just spectacular.
The story takes places in the fictional town of Mystery, deep in Alaska's mountains. It's incredibly cold there, and the town's favorite pasttime is hockey. The Mystery boys are undefeated on pond ice, and the Saturday game is a huge deal for the little burg. Hank Azaria's character had left Mystery to pursue a writing career, and made the town famous with an article in "Sports Illustrated," which caught the eye of NHL bigwigs. The bigwigs signed the New York Rangers, one of the NHL's long-standing great teams, to come up and play an exhibition game against the Mystery team.
The results of that decision are what drives this movie, and in the end, winning or losing the game itself isn't what's important. It's a story about communities, relationships, and the strong bonds between teammates. Don't let this fool you into thinking it's a chick flick, tho; it's a movie that men and women alike will enjoy. There are laugh-out-loud moments, and lot of big grin moments, and a few very heart-touching ones as well, but nothing overly-sappy.
The DVD extra features are sadly lacking, though, the only one of interest being an exceedingly brief behind-the-scenes featurette, which has a few moments of interest, but generally doesn't have anything overwhelming to offer. I would have loved to have seen some outtakes of skating mishaps and cut-ups. Alas.
I really recommend this movie to anyone who enjoys strong character performances and films such as "Doc Hollywood," which offer an insight into the life of tiny towns.
23 Awesome Movie
For all you hockey lovers out there this movie is for you.
This movie is all about this team that just played hockey in there hometown who basically become very well known and good and there is romance twists in this movie as well. This movie is just soooo good I recomend it to anyone. I rate this movie a 10+.
24 A Nice Change of Pace for Crowe!!
I just saw this movie and I liked it...ALOT!! I am a new fan of Russell Crowe and I'm catching up on his movies. This movie surprised me...especially the ending!!! This film is listed under "comedy" at my video store, but it seemed to be more of a drama, but there were some humorous moments.
This is a simple, heartwarming movie. The people in this town has so much pride...they value their weekly, all important "Saturday" games.
I really liked Russell Crowe in this. It's such a nice change of pace for him. I would like to see him in more movies like this, and I LOVED his hair and he smiled alot, which is such a beautiful smile.
IF you like good, heartwarming, feel good movies, then I would recommend this one!!
25 Best part is Russell Crowe of course...
This movie is a bit course but it is still entertaining because first of all, Russell Crowe can make anything entertaining. Secondly, one can't help but get into the story and root for these Alaskans who play hockey for the absolute love of the game. I myself do not care for hockey. However, I found myself getting into it as I would be if I were watching a boxing match if it were Sylvester Stallone in the role of Rocky. Oh Yeah! The role of Russell as a insecure, committed husband with sexy long hair was also a real plus. Can you imagine,ladies? Whew! A good movie for gals and guys alike. Putting Russell off the team as he is a bit older and slower was enough to get the old heart pumping with indignation. If anything, one must continue watching just to see if he gets to play again.
26 A have-fun, feel-good movie!
Against a gorgeous background of snow-capped mountains, Mystery, Alaska tells the story of a small town which is united by its love of hockey and pride in those who play it. The best players participate in the "Saturday Game" where citizens play 5-on-5 hockey on a small pond with no lines, no boards, but lots of fans. A former Mystery resident, now a promoter, comes back to his home town with a proposal that the hometown boys take on the New York Rangers. What are the chances--but who cares when the town joins together in mutual pride to face down their vaunted rivals. Nothing too deep here, but just good fun and old-timey, small-town spirit. You'll find yourself cheering for the undermanned team from the frozen north and having a great time while doing it.
27 Put your skates on!
Everybody ice skates in Mystery, Alaska. There's ice all over the place so the citizens put it to good use with a weekly hockey game among the local athletes. When a local who left manages to get an exibition game with the New York Rangers, the town goes into a turmoil. It's a look at the workings of a small town and all the politics that takes place. Everything that happens is entertaining and heartwarming and the ending will have you cheering with the citizens of Mystery.
28 A movie that leave you feeling good!
This movie is about a small town hockey team in Mystery, Alaska whose talent draws a professional city team to meet them in a challenge. Crowe, the coach of the team decides its time to put on his skates again and join his friends in this battle on the ice. This movie is good and it leaves you feeling good at the end.
29 One of the best movies, ever
I loved this movie. First off, because it was a great story, very unlike the typical hollywoodized drivel that the studios usually see as necessary to sell a movie. David E. Kelly has created a wonderful world in the fictitious town of Mystery, Alaska, which characterizations memorable of most of his successful television shows. Secondly, I loved this movie because of it's casting...BEFORE Russel Crowe was "Russel Crowe," where it seems the actors were cast to best fill their roles rather than to bring up numbers at the box office. This movie made me want to go out and learn how to play ice hockey. If you love movies about overcoming obstacles to live the american dream, you'll love this movie.
30 Heart To Spare !
This is such a perfect little movie, with heart and guts and just the right ammount of small-town quirkiness...A true "crossover" film IMO that will appeal to as many women as men and non-hockey/sports fans as well because of it's well-told story. Even with the obvious homage paid to films like "Rocky", "Mystery,Alaska" stakes it's own unique place in the underdog-genre of film with characters you can't help but care about,great outdoor winter photography, a stirring soundtrack and just superb performances by Russell Crowe, Burt Reynolds and Mary McCormack. A definite keeper for the video/DVD enthusiast to be pulled out again and again for an emotional pick-me-up...
31 Very entertaining!
I really did like this quirky movie. It was very entertaining and you really care about the character Crowe portrays...although his long hair needed a major cut job. It was interesting to see him play the role of loving husband and father. He does quite well and convincingly too. The big hockey game in the end is very edge of your seat. I liked it alot and am glad to add it to my collection of Crowe films. He is such a versatile actor. I always enjoy watching him. The movie takes on a "Northern Exposure" feel but the characters aren't quite as strange...more down to earth. It is very enjoyable.
32 This one is so great that even non-sports fans will love it
Ever since I saw the previews for it a couple of years ago, I knew I had to see "Mystery, Alaska." One thing that surprised me was that my mom even liked it and she HATES watching any kind of sports. Another thing, I haven't ever been that much of a hockey fan myself. In my whole life, I probably haven't watched enough hockey to account for more than two whole NHL games. I'm an NBA and MLB fan instead. However, I liked "Mystery, Alaska" A LOT!
An amateur, but very skilled hockey team from a small town in Alaska called Mystery, get national attention after a former resident writes an article praising them. Surprisingly, this earns the now not so mysterious team from Mystery, Alaska, a game against THE New York Rangers. Will the Mystery team that is led by the town sheriff (Russell Crowe) and is coached by the town's strict judge (Burt Reynolds), have a chance against professionals who get paid millions of dollars to play the game they love?
Let me make it short, I have never been a hockey fan in my life, but I really enjoyed this movie a lot, and my mom doesn't like any sports, and she even liked it. Even if you're not a hockey fan in the least sense or even a sports fan, give "Mystery, Alaska" a shot. It doesn't have any spectacular special effects or anything fancy, and that's good because it didn't need it. But let me tell you, this movie never gets boring the whole time and it features great acting from everybody, especially Burt Reynolds and Russell Crowe.
33 The movie itself is 5 stars
This is a great movie. No 100 million dollar budgets and wowee special effects. Just good writing and great characters. Oh yeah, and hockey. I love hockey. I think it's the sport of the gods. And I went to see this in the theaters because it featured hockey. But now I watch it because it's a great movie. and it would be a great movie no matter what sport it dealt with (even basketball, yuck!).
It star s apre-Gladiator Russel Crowe who is the town Sherriff and player during the Saturday Game. The people in mystery love hockey. Their lives revolve around it. Colm Meany plays the town mayor who is for all intents-and-purposes, the general manager of the "team". Hank Azaria plays the town prodigal son who left town for the bright lights and big city of New York and returns promising a game against the New York Rangers as a publicity stunt.
Admist all the fervor of playing against an NHL team on live TV, Burt Reynolds plays the towns Judge, who cautions them to think it through before agreeing to play a professional team.
Eventually we get to see the game, and it was nice to see them not end it with a total "feel-good" ending. You can probably guess what I mean by that, but you should buy or rent it anyway.
I only gave the DVD 4 stars because the DVD was woefully short on extras. Only the usual we have come to expect... commentary tracks and a very short "making of..." filmette. Still, it's a great buy.
34 :::yawn :::
This is the most boring moralistic [crud] to come out in a very long time
35 exeptional shots
I am a hockey player from holland and i play in one of the top competition leages. This movie is not only great by it's humor or acting quallity. It has the most exeptional hockey shots shown in any hockey movie. Even pro's can watch this video and learn from it. If you like comedy, action and a great game of hockey you must buy this dvd.
36 Awesome movie!!!!
I am a hockey nut, and this movie just made me love it that much more! One of the best movies that I have ever seen in my life!
37 Crowe showing versatiliy in "Mystery, Alaska"
If you don't like hockey, okay. But don't let not liking it keep you from seeing "Mystery, Alaska". This movie is about the human spirit and it's ability to overcome great odds. Crowe learned to skate in two weeks or so for this film showing he can overcome odds. This ability is what lead him to an Oscar. But he doesn't carry this movie alone. Every cast member brings originality to their characters which makes this movie funny and heartwarming. If you are looking for a good laugh and a movie you'll watch over and over, it's "Mystery, Alaska." It's a must have for Crowe fans and a good entertainment dollar spent for movie lovers.
38 Just so Lame
Really, this movie was flat out dumb. I have to admit there was some clever dialoge and Russell Crowe showed to be capable of dry comidy. He was really quite loveable, a take off from his typical ultra macho roles. The scenery was spectacular but the story was just so stupid and predictable. Too much profanity to be a kids film but nothing to hold an adults attention except: hope, that at some point the film would just have to get better or that Russell would show some skin, for us female fans. Unless you are a total feel good movie fan or you just have to see every Crowe film made....forget it.
39 A Charming, Quirky Little Movie
I rented this movie not knowing what it was about and fell in love with it. I now own it and my husband and I enjoy the antics of the eccentric characters. The high school boy with "jump" is a joy to watch. His character has several difficult scenes and he does a very comendable job with them. The entire team have foibles and faults. Russell Crowe is Russell Crowe as usual. I am constantly amazed at this mans scope and range as an actor. His ability to slip into the part in entirity, even the accent was great, is fascinating to behold. I recommend this movie if you are looking for one to make you feel good and laugh and cry.
40 For Sale
I have seen the movie and it does hockey justice. But thats not why I'm writing this. I hope someone who has connections could pass on the idea of selling the Mystery Alaska jersey. It rocks. I would buy one and I know a few others who would too. So if someone can pass on the idea or knows where I can buy one, please contact me.
41 Not what it seems to be...
This movie is described as a comedy, and some of it is... But there is much more there. At first I thought it would be one of those typical "overcoming the obstacles" movies--- you know the type- the "hero" steps in and saves the team, etc... But it is much more. It is a wonderful and touching movie with an ending that brought me to tears and was totally unexpected. I thought Russell Crowe was fantastic, as always. And I loved the small-town feel. This movie accurately portrayed the sense of community that many of us long for. It is a feel-good movie, with some sadness and many real-life and heartfelt situations. I highly recommend it! I even enjoyed Burt Reynolds in it, which was a surprise! :) He did a wonderful and convincing job as the hard-nosed judge/hockey expert. Rent it!
42 A Hockey Movie That's Sadly Realistic
I have been playing organized ice hockey for 13 of the 17 years that I have been alive. Of all the hockey initiated films that I have seen, Mystery, Alaska is the most accurate. The lives of the hockey players in the movie are just like my true life and my life is sad. At about the age of 14, hockey becomes very vicious, brutal and intimidating. A lot of my teammates were dirty goons who only played the sport for it's open violence and, off the ice were sex obsessed. This is just how the movie is portrayed and that's just what hockey is like. It isn't a topic that should have been made into a movie unless it was proving a point. It doesn't tell in any way, tell that the greatness at all levels of hockey is diminishing, but it is. Soon enough, it won't even be a sport anymore. This movie just repeats the sad truth. It is damned sad that most players either don't care about anything but hockey, or don't give enough respect to the sport. Mystery, Alaska reinstates this and by making this movie, they worsened the chance of hockey shaping up. As for the plot, the pond game was boring and having the heroes lose didn't give it any kind of original cleverness or genius ending. This movie is a shame.
43 honor and dignity
If you're looking for the Austin Powers type, you're in the wrong place. But if you want to meet a community of real people living in far Alaska, don't hesitate. In a thrilling challenge to the famous New York Rangers, the local hockey team will try to make its dream come true and win the game, fighting for dignity and success. Every character is worth the shot Mayor Colm Meaney, Judge Burt Reynolds, Sheriff Russell Crowe, journalist Hank Azaria. You liked Field of dreams ? You'll love Mystery Alaska.
44 The best pickup game since "Slap Shot"
The small town Mystery, Alaska has one bondage when the "Saturday Pick-Up" hockey team keep in check their pride and dignity. In a town where most everyone moves by blade, the community supports their Saturday game. The team is scouted out by a New York agency that settles on that Mystery can take on the New York Rangers for fun. The game is on the pond with realism and the ice has makeshift stands and boards made of lumber to go by the NHL regulations. This was one flick that I never did say "that couldn't happen" because it was close to reality. The storyline touches the heart when you see how a small community can support a team that is also key government (mayor, judge, sheriff). This is worth getting and it is the best storyline for a hockey movie.
45 Mighty Ducks for Adults
Saw this picture the other night, and I must say that I enjoyed it. The characters are likeable, and each grows in their little way by the end credits. Russell Crowe provides an enjoyable performance as the town sheriff/hockey team captain who is bitter that he has been removed from the town's hockey team in order to make room for the next generation of hockey stars. The film centers around the small town hockey team taking on the NY Rangers, and the conflict that this causes throughout the town of Mystery, Alaska. The end surprised me, and might just surprise you as well. Certainly a film to view, it's one of the better "feel-good" movies that I've seen.
46 Mystery, Alaska is the place to be!
This charming film didn't get the positive praise it deserved. It was absolutely wonderful. The small Alaskan town of "Mystery" has a quirky "Northern Exposure" feel to it, and a wonderful ensemble cast add a lot of fun and games.
The "Saturday" hockey game leads off this fairy-tale story of David vs. Goliath, as their hometown boys go against the NHL'S New York Rangers. Former "townie" Hank Azaria starts this whole thing by writing a spotlight on the "Saturday Game" for Sports Illustrated and well.. Mystery is never the same after that. Russell Crowe turns in a great performance as "slightly older" town Sherif John Biebe, who is the heart and soul of the much younger hockey team. There are many wonderful smaller performances by faces you'll certainly know and love. It's a wonderfully sweet, charming and funny (with classic one liners from MANY of the young players) movie that only HAPPENS to be about hockey. There is so much more to it. You don't have to know a thing about hockey to appreciate this fun and lighthearted movie. It's right up there with my all-time favs. Definatley worth a look!
47 An ice hockey love story?!
In the small town of Mystery, ice hockey players are heroes. Thin, non-sportive males are sent away, presumably with some homosexual insults thrown at them: Quite typical for some of the more squalid little towns out there. The story focuses on the oh-so-tough players on the frozen village pond, and their oh-so-heroic fight against some US league team. If you're into Burt "I can't act" Reynolds and brutal sports action, you might like this film. If not, then you'd better not touch this film with a ten-foot pole: Boring story, mostly lousy acting (Russell Crowe being an exception). And a rather painfully stupid romance angle that must have been edited into the script during, probably, very many amateurish script re-writes.
48 Genuinely fun movie
I rented this DVD having never even heard of the movie.But after having watched it, Mystery, Alaska has become one of my favorite movies. This enjoyable tale about a town full of eccentric, hockey-obsessed people, moves along at a nice, steady pace. Unlike many movies these days, Mystery, Alaska doesn't rush through important plot points. When a former neighbor returns home bringing the New York Rangers to play against Mystery's legendary hockey team, the town sheriff, recently bumped from the team for a younger player who's got "jump", agrees to coach. The members of the team are fleshed out well by an ensemble cast of virtual unknowns, with the exception of Russell Crowe. The ending is exciting, and surprisingly unpredictable. For me, the actor that stole the show was Ryan Northcott, a barely credited character, who plays the pivotal role of the high school skating whiz who takes Russell Crowe's place on the team. He has a couple of the most amusing, and embarassing, scenes in the movie, and handles them with humor and grace. Overall, Mystery, Alaska was a funny, enjoyable movie that I recommend to everyone. You don't have to be a hockey fan to love Mystery, Alaska.
49 FANTASTIC
I rented the movie and watched it twice in one week. It was just as exciting to watch the second time as it was the first. I didn't want to return it to the video store. It's definately on my list of movies to buy.
50 You don' have to like sports to like this 'Mystery".
Sports fan? You don't have to be to enjoy Mystery, Alaska. While it won't go down as one of the greatest sports movies ever, it offers more than might meet the eye. While the signature star might be Russell Crowe, Burt Reynolds is very, very good, as is Mary McCormick. So, should you buy Mystery, Alaska? Well, as a fan of sports movies, I still wait with great anticipation to watch the end of movies like Hoosiers, Major League, and Tin Cup. Three exceptional sports movies. 'Mystery' offers something a little different. Nice cast, reasonable storyline, interesting characters, and a not so predictable ending. If you are a fan of GOOD movies, regardless of the genre, add 'Mystery, Alaska' to your collection.
51 There's Warmth In "Mystery, Alaska"
It's cold in the small hamlet of Mystery, Alaska, but there's plenty of warmth in "Mystery, Alaska," the film, directed by Jay Roach, about the town and the sport that is ingrained in the collective consciousness of the community. Hockey is the game, and when a former resident, now a journalist, writes a story about Mystery's home-town team and their "Saturday Game," and it ends up as a three page spread complete with pictures in Sports Illustrated, it has far reaching effects on the populace of this small dot on the map. Soon the town is turned upside down, embroiled in an event, the proportions of which, to them, are huge. Needless to say, it involves hockey and an encounter with a high-profile professional team. Yes, there is a lot of hockey in this movie, but be advised, this film is not "about" hockey; this is a movie about people- real people- and what makes them tick. Roach has crafted a thoroughly entertaining and emotional story of want and need, dignity and desire, obsession and love, and he's captured it all through the winning performances of a stellar ensemble cast, the most prominent of which is Russell Crowe. The charismatic Crowe, finally on his way to superstardom thanks to his turn in "Gladiator" plays John Biebe, Mystery's sheriff and captain of the hockey team. His rugged good looks and persona fit the character perfectly, and he puts all of his myriad personal resources to work to put it across, and that he does. Also notable is the personable Mary McCormack as John's wife, Donna, who does a great job of fleshing out the character of this woman who made what she deems to be the right choices in her life, without regrets or apologies to herself or anyone else. It's a refreshing portrayal, and the chemistry between her and Crowe is unmistakable. Also adding to the overall texture of this film are Hank Azaria, as Charles Danner, the journalist who gets the whole thing rolling; Burt Reynolds, as Judge Walter Burns, a man forced to deal with his own personal issues, which include a son, Birdie (Scott Grimes), a member of the hockey team; Colm Meany, as Scott Pitcher, Mayor of Mystery, and Lolita Davidovich as his wife, Mary Jane; Maury Chaykin, as Bailey Pruitt, the man who seems to personify the very essence of Mystery's spirit; and Ron Eldard as "Skank," another member of the team who's good for two things-suffice to say that hockey is one of them. Mercifully, "Mystery, Alaska" never pursues the beat-the-dead-horse cliched mentality that sports "teaches one to be a team player and builds character." Instead, Roach has given us a worthwhile, memorable movie with a human touch, and because of that, in the end these are people you care about, as individuals as well as a community. The climactic game is exciting and far from predictable, beginning with the celebrity they bring in to sing the National Anthem. This may not be one of Russell Crowe's biggest or highest profile movies, but this is one he's going to be able to look back upon with pride, because it's right up there with his best. Remember, you don't have to be a sports fan to enjoy this movie; all that's required is that you have a membership in the club know as Mankind.
52 The infidelity..
To: "Maybe It's Just Me." No, it's not just you. I loved this movie and wished they could have rewritten that part...maybe have Stank(?)and her caught necking or something because the married couple's relationship was an important aspect of the plot. Colm was such a stuffed shirt! Maybe you and I are a little naive to think this would've been believable to the so-called sophisticated movie goer. Also, that last comment from the little kid durng the game was stupid, but the director let him redeem himself later in the game action.
53 I rented it twice
This is one of those movies that didn't get the attention or accolades it deserved. It is something different, its very funny, and has some wonderful characters and acting. Its one of those movies that leaves you with a good feeling when its over. I watched it about a month ago, then rented it again a week ago, and enjoyed it the second time. Definately worth a look.
54 Maybe It's Just Me....
Am I the only one who was bothered by the way the script dismisses Colm Meaney's wife's unjustifiable infidelity as being unimportant? Otherwise a decent piece of entertainment.
55 This is a great movie for anyone
This movie is a great hockey movie and I love hockey. It has everything in it. Everyone should see this movie.
56 Mystery, Alaska
A "Northern Exposure"-like collection of small town characters flesh out this sweet story of small town Alaska with one main passion: Ice Hockey. Russell Crowe turns in an excellent performance as the aging Sheriff John Biebe, who is standing in the way of the next potential Saturday star on the ice. Filled with a wonderful ensemble cast of interesting characters, this films moves in a predictable direction with some pleasant surprises along the way. Burt Reynolds turns in a fine performance as the town judge. No great special effects, and not a whole lot of action but some marvelous performances in a pleasant tale. The film is not just for hockey fans but for anyone who enjoys a quiet study of some great characters.
57 What does the DVD really have? Not enough bonus materials
So, you know what the movie is like, so I won't review it.
But, this is what you'll find in the DVD ed. of Mystery Alaska.
Not enough bonus materials to be honest. A behind-the-scenes footage of about 4 minutes, the trailer and that's all. A real pity. I wish it had more stuff.
58 "Rocky" on ice
I'm a big hockey fan and I LOVE Russell Crowe; what more could I want? This movie definitely makes you want to root for the underdogs, hoping they'll pull through at the end.
59 Good characterization and acting in this little movie...
Why didn't the critics like this movie? I wonder if they just dismissed it as too insignificant, or something. It must have left the big screen when I blinked my eyes. Russell Crowe was born for the silver screen with wonderful, subtle characterizations of all his roles, but everyone is good in this film. The language and sex are not gratuitous, but enough to keep the film away from pre-teens, I guess. I do wish they'd kept that little kid quieter at times. The director should've known we could've lived without his last remark when being interviewed by the sports person, but watch him during the game at times... he redeems himself. Someone before mentioned the "newspaper" scene and Crowe's smile when seeing his wife through the windshield. I wonder if this is his work, or the director's work. I understand he wants to direct and if it's his work, he'll be wonderful. I'm thinking about buying this DVD...that's how good it is.....just to raise my spirits once in a while.
60 Unexpectedly great movie from a non-hockey fan
OK, an old plot, but I liked the new setting, and the characters. best Burt Reynolds role in a long time. Lots of new faces.
61 Simple fun
I liked the movie. It was fun to watch a movie that was simple entertainment....I like Russell Crowe and think his portrayal and acting was right on. I liked the whole town....simple fun, no brain surgery here, just sit back, relax and enjoy.....
62 This is a really entertaining movie
I'm a huge hockey fan, but that's not the only reason I love this movie. It's very entertaining, and there are several plots going on within the movie. It's very well written and well acted too.
63 Just fun
For a hockey fan , a movie about it is always fun to watch. Besides that, it has a very good message about team work, loyalty and faith. Is a must-watch.
64 Warm, Quirky and Entertaining
I have to begin this by saying that I am a hockey fan. But I think I liked "Mystery Alaska" becasue it's a really good story. Many movies try to dazzle you with an all star cast and huge special effects budget, but in the end only disappoint you because at the core of the film there's no actual story. "Mystery Alaska" is the story of a quirky little town that revolves around the Saturday hockey game played on the local pond. Being a member of the team is a prestigious and revered position in Mystery. There is no pay or world wide fame gained from being in the Saturday game, but the men play because their fathers played, and their fathers played. It's funny to watch the men obsess over the their spot on the team, because only a select few hold those spots. When one of the men is replaced by the young up and comer in town, it's almost as though someone has died. "Mystery Alaska" does boast a great cast, including: Russell Crowe (Gladiator), Colm Meany (Con Air) & Burt Reynolds. If you like the feel good sports movie genre, and also enjoy a little quirky humor, then this might be the movie for you.
65 Snowbound Fun
The first five minutes of this sweet little flick sets the stage for a poignant laughter-through-tears story. This town gives new meaning to the word 'dysfunctional' and all have to pay their dues. The rag-tag hockey team is a group of unlikely guys who each have their own misbegotten charms. There's a sheriff (who's sons spend way too much time in the locker room), a trigger-happy grocer, a high school senior and one character appropriately named 'Skank' who can't seem to keep his pants on. This is one of the better David-And-Goliath sports movies out there and if you like hockey...RENT IT! Russell Crowe always gives a good performance and there were quite a few surprises from the other actors as well. Even Burt Reynolds' performance was enjoyable. All-in-all, it was great fun and I will definately own this one on DVD. Spectacular sound. You really feel like you're at a hockey game...minus the cold, of course.
66 3 3/4 Stars rounding up on the Spree. Connection
Yes, this is the Russell Crowe film Spree.
Have we seen this plot before? Yes, in various forms, quite a few from Disney. What elevates this film is the connection between characters. There is real bonding going on. Also, give me an actor that has theatre experience everytime. They always add more. Mary McCormack is wonderful as Donna Biebe. There is one scene, she's fighting with John and she's still a mom of 3 boys... all the way, cleaning and fighting as she goes. I had to watch it several times it was that good. And then the scene with the newspaper...well you'll just have to watch it.
And a director who knows to hold on his actors faces, let their thoughts read in the camera. Russell Crowe is a master of this. The twitch of a smile, as he notices his wife before she gets in the car. Nothing needs to be said.
There was a nice chemistry between Burt Reynolds and Russell Crowe. There were also obvious connections with the players on the team.
A nice, warm movie to watch on a winters day.
67 Characters curse and bless this non-mystery of a plot
You won't find a lot in MYSTERY, ALASKA that's new. This kind of sports story has been told many times before. But that won't stop your enjoyment of it. David Kelley's ability to capture the essence of a place through interesting characters has long been demonstrated on television, and he's in good form, here. Mind you, his characters here are somewhat ordinary by PICKET FENCES or ALLY MCBEAL standards, but they're still more attention-grabbing than characters usually offered up in sports movies.
Indeed, if the film has a real fault it's that Kelley has so enjoyed his own visit to Mystery that he's written about almost too many characters. The film would probably have been helped by a little judicious editing, or by more closely linking the subplots, but the meander is far from unpleasant.
This is no doubt because these many characters are played by fine actors. The cast is fairly loaded with talent, and all of them get at least a few memorable lines. By far most impressive is Burt Reynolds, whose acting continues to improve even after decades in the business. He's clearly gone to some effort, here, creating a precise vision for his character that goes so far as to include an especially subtle Alaskan accent.
Parents should be warned, however, that amidst what is otherwise a family film are some fairly long stretches of adult language that, while character-appropriate, may be objectionable to some. This should be a minor concern to most parents, however, as the ultimate message of the movie is entirely praiseworthy and could spark useful and instructive family discussions.
(DVD notes: This is an unfortunately sparse DVD with nothing of particular value to film students. There are no audio commentaries, and the "making-of" featurette is woefully short and does more to rehash the plot than to discuss how the film was made.)
68 Funny movie, good plot, all ends are tied up by the end!
After watching this movie and laughing with it, we were checking out the trailers included on the DVD and found that we could watch the whole movie in French as well. To me this is a real plus as I study languages other than English. Hearing a movie in another language is a great way to learn it. The dubbing is nicely done so that was also enjoyable. Good flick!
69 Boring as can be
This movie was really boring but I do have to give this movie credit because when they were playing hockey they did a good job of acting like hockey players. And the acting was good but I think it was just the hole plot and the story climax of it was just not worth all the watching and this dose end up being a long movie. But I say you can pass this movie up unless you are a major hockey fan then you might love those scences or you might not.
70 Hockey, Love, and the god-like Russel Crowe.
In a word: SCORE! This is Mighty Ducks meets Major League with a hint of integrity. The hockey alone is worth it, but the story is fun as hell. Russel Crowe turns in another wonderful preformance, but not to be overlooked is Colm Meany who of course played the always reliable and lovelable Chief O'Brien on "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and later on "Deep Space Nine." This is the only movie I have ever liked Burt Reynolds in and Hank Azaria, well what can I say, it's nice to see someone punch his lights out. This is the only film I have gotten up at 7 in the morning to watch, if you like wham bam thank you ma'am sports with some actual character development and great humor, then pick this baby up, it will not let you down.
71 The Big Mystery
The big Mystery in Mystery Alaska was how come the critics didn't give it a more positive review? I couldn't wait for the movie to come out and both my husband and I laughed through out most of the movie. We loved it! Everyone keeps compairing it to Northern Exposure. Just because it was about Alaska doesn't make it a Northern Exposure. Diana
72 Who ever thought Crowe, Azaria, Reynolds together?
When I first saw the beginning of this film.. all i could think of was RUSSEL CROWE and HANK AZARIA and BURT REYNOLDS all in the same film? To me.. it definatelty was obvious there was a miss cast.. and at first it was hard to see Russell Crowe in this film.. but he is good in it.. But I really did not like this film.. but the only reason I did was because I felt the ending really made this movie watch-able... And really the apperance in this film.. honestly do not seem to make sence!Apperances by Little Richard? Mike Myers? (well maybe b/c the same director who directed Austin Powers directed this film).. but still.. MIKE MYERS? seriously... it was kind of funny to see these group of actors work together.. And the film has a good plot.. but only if it was carried out just a little bit more stronger.. it could of been a better in my oponion.. but this movie is really they type where the ending definately makes the movie worth seeing...
73 Pleasantly Surprised
Like another reviewer had stated, I was expecting just an average movie. One I did not care to see in the theatre, but MAYBE would rent. WOW! I was very pleased! Great acting, believeable characters, laughs, sadness, and cheers. What a heart-warming movie that did not drag for a second! A movie that gals and guys would find wonderful! What a great town and wonderful scenery in this small and cold town! I would recommend it to anyone. The only downside is that it has some language and a few scenes that might not be good for small children. But these scenes are needed in the movie. When this movie is discounted, it will be a purchase for me! 5 STARS
74 Entertaining and Exciting
This movie has a wonderful plot that is much more than hockey. If you enjoyed Hoosiers than you will like Mystery, Alaska. A great sports movie that has a wondeful feel to it, with good humor.
75 Pretty Good Movie
Mystery Alaska was a good film about Hockey. It kind of reminded me of The Bad News Bears meets the NHL. Instead of kids however, the Mystery Alaska hockey team are a bunch of Adults all with problems of their own...which you will find out about by watching this. The cast is good, and I would say the 2nd half of the movie is much more fast paced than the first. It was another good performance by Burt Reynolds. Die Hard Hockey fans will love this movie. ALl others I would recommend renting this before purchasing it.
76 A satisfied non-hockey fan
Well, I'm a woman and I'm NOT a hockey fan and I was pleasantly surprised when I found that I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. I came to care about the characters (and they are real CHARACTERS) in this little Alaskan town. The movie was very funny while also very touching. There were so many special touches added (like a couple surprise cameo appearances) which add to the fun. The acting was topnotch, especially Russell Crowe and even Burt Reynolds. I found myself laughing outloud in more than one scene and cheering for the 'underdog' team during the final game. This movie isn't so much about hockey as about the human spirit, value of relationships and hometown pride. I'll definitely buy this movie when the price comes down.
77 Entertaining
Pretty much what you'd expect. Small-town guys who excel at one thing get a chance do good, prove themselves. I thought the idea of the almost-ritual tradition of the town's Saturday hockey team was interesting and wished they'd developed the idea a little. That's my big complaint: the characters and themes are underdeveloped in favor of moving along with the hackneyed storyline of amateur underdog versus professional goons. Still, the film is entertaining enough, and the hockey game at the end is well-paced and exciting without becoming outrageous. I wouldn't shell out the bucks to buy a copy, but worth renting.
78 see this to restore your faith in D. Kelly after Lake Placid
after seeing lake placid, i was weary about trying another one of his featured films. However, I was pleaasnatly surprised. I actually really cared about the characters and to see the NY Rangers fly in by helicopter was a great and cool scene. The ending was great although unexpected. Worth a rental!
79 Likeable but overly long
This is a likeable film using the hackneyed "obscure underdog" storyline. David E. Kelley tries his hand at writing another feature film after the bizarre `Lake Placid'. This is certainly better than that abomination, but the plot presents us with nothing new or fresh and meanders around town doing random character studies on unimportant characters. Still, it's hard not to like a film where a small town hockey club roughs up the New York Rangers.
The story revolves around the small town of Mystery, Alaska where the only thing to do or talk about is hockey. John Biebe (Russell Crowe) is the sheriff and a veteran of the Saturday hockey game, which is the focal point of Mystery's culture. As a result of an article written in Sports Illustrated, the NHL and the NY Rangers think it would be a good promotional gimmick for the Rangers to play this scrappy bunch of amateurs. So now the town is in a tizzy over this defining moment in their history.
Kelley's script expands this film to be much longer than it should have been. He spends far too much time following the gossip of who's sleeping with whom among ancillary characters, and not enough time in character development of the players other than Biebe. Director Jay Roach does a good job, however of keeping the viewer engaged through the use of excellent hockey action shots that take you right onto the ice. Also, how can you not love the majestic mountain backdrops in just about every outdoor scene.
Once the film at long last gets to the game, it succeeds at accomplishing what the formula intends, that is, it gets us to pull hard for the underdog.
For Russell Crowe, this was much less intense than his roles in `The Insider' and `Gladiator'. He did a nice job of portraying the old warhorse, giving the character steadiness, dignity and determination. I wonder where a guy from Australia learned to ice skate so well. Colm Meaney gave a good performance as the mayor but Burt Reynolds was a little stiff as the judge (maybe it's rigor mortis).
Though there is a lot to criticize about this film, it is still entertaining and for those who love hockey, it does a good job of providing some up-close action footage of the game. I rated it a 7/10.
80 Great Hockey Movie - Exciting and Inspirational!
This is a terrific movie for any hockey fan to own. Until now I have watched the very old "Youngblood" with Rob Lowe and Patrick Swayze over a dozen times this hockey season alone. Is it real life? Of course not! However, it is a movie that inspires you as any true sports movie such as "Rudy" or "Brian's Song" or "Bull Durham" or "Tin Cup" does. This is a fantastic film that easily fills the gap in anyone's sports film library. Why didn't I give it a 5? I always leave room for improvement not matter what I am rating...
81 Pleasant Movie
I wanted to see this movie for one reason only. I wanted to see Ryan Northcott, who portrayed Stevie Weeks. He also played Carl Wilson in a Beach Boys TV miniseries a few months ago, and I had read that "Mystery Alaska" was Northcott's debut movie. I was prepared to like this movie though, since it was described as a "feel good" movie.
I hate to say that I thought the movie was sort of silly. As I was watching it I thought to myself more than a few times that it should have been a made-for-TV movie. It just didn't have that big screen feel to me. And the idea of the New York Rangers going to Alaska to play a small town hockey team struck me as pretty ridiculous.
There are some very good performances in it though. Russell Crowe - I can understand why he's so hot now. He definitely has the charisma and talent. Ryan Northcott plays Stevie Weeks, the young, fast, new hot shot hockey player. He has a fresh-faced innocence and vulnerability besides being a good actor. I hope he goes far with his career. The actors were good overall. I just found the plot somewhat unbelievable. It seemed like the producers couldn't decide whether to make a silly movie with jokes, or a serious one. Or they just weren't very good at combining both.
One last thing, watching a movie where its freezing, gray skies, and snow 24/7 on the ground doesn't do much for me either.
82 A movie about friendship, not hockey
If you were looking for a movie about hockey, sorry. This movie is much better than that. It is about friendship and the bonds people form when they spend their lives together. The small town atmosphere is so true. I was pleasantly surprised at how good this movie was. I laughed and I cried. Russell Crowe is a great actor. This is a movie to watch anytime with your friends and the ones that you love!
83 Hockey was great, but inconsistant overall.
The last 30 minutes of this film really saved it for me. It has action packed hockey, and moving drama. In the last 30 minutes, I finally sensed the bond and brotherhood theme of the movie. Unfortunately, the first hour and a half are not as good. The story doesn't go deep enough into the characters, there is an inconsistant mix of drama and comedy, and, even though gratuitious sex can be fun in some movies, it really hurt this one. My main point is, this movie was supposed to be about brotherhood and hockey, and it shows in the last 30 minutes, but the first part of the movie could have been better. Also, the gratutious sex and select language is why this movie got rated R. It would have been a great PG-13, and still would have got its theme accross without the gratuitous stuff. As for the DVD, you get a small ammount of features: a trailer and a 5 minute featurette.
84 Small town sports at its best
I figured Mystery, Alaska would be an okay movie, something to see with my wife on a Saturday night but nothing to write home about. I was very pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying Mystery, Alaska; it's actually a very well-edited, well-written film which overcomes its cliches through good acting and an unusual plotline.
Anyone who has lived in a small town and experienced small town sports will immediately find a soft spot for this movie. Much like the boys in Hoosiers, the heroes of Mystery, Alaska are the over-achieving yet mysteriously talented local boys who play an entirely different brand of hockey than the glitzy millionaires from New York. Yet the millionaires don't get villified; the movie isn't about them at all. This is a movie about community more than sports.
One of the most effective elements of the film is the opening credits. The stunning visual imagery of a young man skating a frozen river in the middle of nowhere is just plain cool, in my humble opinion!
Mystery, Alaska is a movie about friendship and support in adversity, and how you can always forgive one of your own when they set off for "bigger and better things." I would highly recommend Mystery, Alaska for anyone who sometimes just wants to go home again.
85 Get Ready To Root For The Underdogs
I am a woman, and yes I love hockey, and yes I love this movie. The cast is made up of loveable and endearing characters, not the least of which is Russell Crowe, who love hockey so much they play every weekend on their small home pond. Crowe gives a strong performance as the elder statesman of the group whose position on the team is threatened when a former resident (Hank Azaria) returns to stage a challenge of the Mystery, Alskan team agains tthe New York Rangers. All the while, Crowe is left feeling vulnerable because of the success Azaria's character has acheived, and he wonders if his wife longs for her former love.
Burt Reynolds is great as a former hockey coach who refuses to help coach the Mystery team because of personal issues.
If you love hockey you will love this movie. It's charming, inspiring, and entertaining.
86 Remember slapshot this is not
If you wanna see a good hockey movie rent slapshot because this one was weak
87 An Inspiring Flick
This film was well directed and acted. Crowe is quickly becoming one of my favorite versatile actors. The characters in this film were highly likeable. I had the privalege of seeing this on a screener from a distibuting company. On the case it says "the Rocky of Hockey". Thats just what this is, regular joes who play with heart, get a chance to play against the pros. Mike Myers has a cameo role in this film as a see sawing sports analysist. Great for any DVD collection.
88 An excellent movie
Russell Crowe is an excellent actor. This movie was a fun hockey film about a rag tag team from the little town of Mystery who have a chance to take on the New York Rangers. Don't take it too seriously, and you will have fun.
89 Great Movie!
For all of you who didnt like this movie you are nuts! I live in a small town in Alaska where hockey is one of the main sports. This movie was fun to watch and it had players that reminded me of our Hockey Team 100% Its a great movie for any true hockey fan.
90 If you are a sports fan and like sports movies, you'll like.
Okay, if you're trying to be a serious critic and looking for serious drama and deep story lines, you won't like this movie. But, if you're a sports fan (especially if you ever played Hockey) you'll like the show. Sure it's pretty predictible, but the actings decent and the underdog story is good, albeit typical. This isn't as good as Hoosiers, the Longest Yard, Major League or Slap Shot. But it's better than the Program, North Dallas Forty, and the Natural.
91 The best hockey movie next to Slap Shot
I'm a big hockey fan and I for one loved Mystery, Alaska. SlapShot will always be the best hockey movie of all time but I thoughtMystery, Alaska was great. And so did all of my hockey friends.
92 Worth The Price of Admission
I'll admit to having been dragged, kicking and screaming, by my roommate to see this film in the theatre. Imagine my delight when I found myself *enjoying* this movie. It might be cliched, as many have pointed out, but it is also well written, well portrayed, and very enjoyable. I can't wait till May so I can have my own copy.
93 Binghamton?
Being a fan of the Hartford Wolfpack since the team moved herein '97, I was a bit dissapointed at the end of the film. Go 'Pack!
94 Excellent Film
Don't listen to those other people, this is a really good film. Since when do you have to walk away from a movie feeling different? Since when does a movie have to MOVE YOU to be "good"? I went to this movie and got exactly what I wanted: 2 hours of unencumbered escapism. No lavish special effects, no figuring out who Keyser Soze is, just a good use of $7 for a movie ticket. So there! Enjoy this movie, it's entertaining!
95 Worst movie ever
I will never watch Ally mcbeal or the practice and i will never see a Russel crowe movei beacuse the story in this was so cliched and the acting so melodramatic it makes you hate hockey
96 This movie was weak dude
Who in the world greenlighted the script on this one whoever did probably got fired it is just one GIANT cLIChe of a movie
97 David E Kelly please stick to tv
The only Mystery about Mystery Alaska is who greenlighted it.Every fake movie cliche you could think of was used in this.At least few people were fooled by this joke of a movie.
98 Why I saw this movie
I saw this movie for 1 reason: Russell Crowe. Not only can he act, he's my age & he's gorgeous! This movie was not the best ever made, but it was fair better than most critics said it was.
99 A melting pot of love, drama, and most impotant, HOCKEY!
This film has something for everyone. This story of the Saturday Game in the small town of Mystery, AK unfolds into a wonderful story, not just of a pond-hockey team playing against the New York Rangers, but of the pride of an entire town. It is full of light hearted humor, but this movie is no joke. You become a citizen of Mystery as you not only laugh, but also cry and of course, cheer. Mystery Alaska has enough hockey to keep any sports fan entertained. The movie also has plenty of action and drama to please the crowd that asks "Wayne who?" It truely is a movie for all. If you are a hockey fan, I am here to tell you, this is the new "Slap Shot".
100 Hockey is greatly portrayed in this Movie.
this is the best sports u have and will ever see. It is mixed comedy, drama, romance, and plenty of action for the sports players.
