Ice Guardians

While I never got very into Ice Hockey, there was a time I played NHL as a video game. And while many may only recognize Wayne Gretzky, if you are into the sport you will know other names too (like Chelios and so forth). For people who have seen the movie Goon, there is not "Stifler" but Jay Baruchel to give his 5 cents. Sometimes he may seem unreasonable, but overall it is just another voice added and you can decide what you make of it.

It's also a nice touch, that people on the street are being asked things that concern the NHL. A very refreshing documentary with a great structure. So even if you not that into the hockey game, you will find something to grab your attention and keep the suspension high. It really is good and it will touch a nerve with you if your heart is not made out of stone

Brett Harvey's documentary Ice Guardians (released in 2016) is about very interesting subject. I am an ice hockey fan and enforcers are one interesting part of the NHL matches. I have noticed that fights have decreased in recent years. This documentary told some reasons for that.

Many former NHL players who were enforcers told about being enforcer and the evolution of the role in the history of the NHL. Former players and most fans who were interviewed hoped that the role of enforcer wouldn't disappear completely. Couple of interviewed said that the health of enforcers is a priority.

The documentary isn't completely objective and could be little shorter. On the other hand some interviews are emotional for example Dave Semenko's thoughts about winning the Stanley Cup when he played in Edmonton. Better than average documentary. 7/10

This film is a must watch for any hockey fan and indeed great viewing for any sports fan in general An amazing insight into the life of a professional hockey player, specifically looking at the role of the enforcer. It is cut together very well, it grips you to the point of not being able to look away in fear of missing something. The players them selves are captivating and the various experts add levels of depth. This includes Dr Victoria Silverwood, who adds her views following her PhD study entitled "Five for Fighting: The Culture and Practice of Violence in Professional Ice Hockey".

I cannot wait to watch it again, as I have a firm feeling that I will "see" other things that I missed the first time around.

This is the only movie, show, or documentary that I have ever rated a 10/10. It was amazing! Enforcers have done more to protect players than any rule ever has. This documentary does a great job of explaining the fighting aspect of the game and those who do the dirty work. It also clears up a lot of misconceptions that people and the media have on the subject.

Great hearing and seeing actual players in the video clips and interviews speaking for themselves instead of some biased, deceptive media talking head. Excellent depiction of an enforcer in hockey and the NHL. The hot issues, enforcers, fighting, concussions..., were discussed fairly by all sides. Well done!