Cast
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Paul Newman
as Reggie 'Reg' Dunlop
Strother Martin
as Joe McGrath
Michael Ontkean
as Ned Braden
Jennifer Warren
as Francine Dunlop
Lindsay Crouse
as Lily Braden
Jerry Houser
as Dave 'Killer' Carlson
Andrew Duncan
as Jim Carr
Jeff Carlson
as Jeff Hanson
Steve Carlson
as Steve Hanson
David Hanson
as Jack Hanson
Yvon Barrette
as Denis Lemieux
Allan F. Nicholls
as Johnny Upton
Brad Sullivan
as Morris 'Mo' Wanchuk
Stephen Mendillo
as Jim Ahern
Yvan Ponton
as Jean-Guy Drouin
Crew
Director
- George Roy Hill
Writer
- Nancy Dowd
Producer
- Stephen J. Friedman
- Robert J. Wunsch
Reviews
John Chard
Funny, cynical and irreverent.
Paul Newman is the coach of third rate failing minor league hockey team, The Charlestown Chiefs. The town is hit hard by unemployment and this appears to be the Chiefs' last season, however, if the coach can whip up the team up into a winning frenzy, then the unknown owner might just find a buyer and save all their carers? The management bring in three odd looking brothers who, once unleashed, take the whole team on a blood thirsty winning streak right to the championship final. The crowds flock in thirsting for more blood, but then the problems start to arise.
Slap Shot is a tremendously funny film, it's also incredibly violent and often vulgar in dialogue, but be sure to know that both things go hand in hand here (or should it be glove in glove?) to create one of the smartest sports pictures in the modern age. The hockey sequences are excellent (especially to a non fan like me), and the script bristles with course and biting humour. Slap Shot on its initial release was frowned upon by many critics, it was considered too profane and overly harsh with the win at all costs theme driving it forward. However, it's now rightly embraced as the smart and intelligent piece that director George Roy Hill wanted it to be seen as. A new generation of movie fans have started to seek it out and its reputation and fan base grows ever more larger by the year.
Newman was a bona fide star, his hair silver grey but his good looks still firmly intact, his performance has a grace about it that oddly sits nicely amongst this cynical stab at professional hockey; even if his characters' clothes are, in truth, icky. It would be a big disservice if I didn't mention the impact of the Hanson Brothers, surely one of the finest combinations to have ever graced a sports movie? They are at once unassumingly likable, the next gleefully violent, they are the glue that binds the whole picture together. Film is filled out with sparkling support work from the likes of Strother Martin, Michael Ontkean, Jennifer Warren, Lindsay Crouse and Jerry Houser.
Not long after originally writing this review, the legend that was Paul Newman sadly passed away, he left behind a movie legacy that few can touch, and trust me, this is one of them. A sports movie that never gets old and continues to pay off on repeat viewings. 8.5/10
Feb 10, 2019
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Slap Shot examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director George Roy Hill brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1977, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Slap Shot took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $6.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 123 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 160 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 282 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1977, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Slap Shot shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Funeral, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Slap Shot offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like King of the Ants and The Damned United explore similar territory, Slap Shot stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 25, 1977
- Runtime: 2h 3m
- Budget: $6,000,000
- Revenue: $28,000,000
Where to Watch
