Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Sports docu scores on role models but misses the big win.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Hockeyland
What's the Story?
Minnesota is HOCKEYLAND, where many kids grow up on the ice, and high school hockey can feel like everything. The seniors of two rival teams face off to try to capture the championship for their school and the glory for themselves. The underlying hope is to make a name for themselves in their hallowed hallways before heading into an uncertain future.
Is It Any Good?
This documentary falls short of all-star status -- although, as one might say about an athlete, what writer-director Tommy Haines lacks in talent, he makes up for with heart and passion. The filmmaking in Hockeyland isn't strong, and it's often difficult to tell which team is being discussed and which shaggy-haired blond kid is which. The camera is jerky and all over the place. The editing needs edits. And the audience doesn't quite know who to root for: There's no clear protagonist. Perhaps Haines started out following one story, but it didn't quite pan out, so he ended with a different one. Regardless, a lot of storylines miss the net.
But these teens shine. Their dedication to their sport is impressive and aspirational. And it's impossible not to feel their parents' pride. Haines does seem to have realized a challenge he faced with his subjects: Student athletes prepping for the big leagues are often boring. They spend all day in practice and go to sleep early. But Haines overcomes this by capturing their moments of friendship, of levity, of worry, and of communion. It's unlikely this documentary will win any competitions, but there are still worthy moments for viewers of Hockeyland.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the benefits of team sports. Why is teamwork an essential life skill?
What is grit, and how do the student athletes demonstrate that quality?
How does Elliott express his challenges with overcoming the poor choices he made in the past? Do you know anyone who's always "in trouble" and, if so, why do you think that is?
How do the athletes demonstrate gratitude? Why is gratitude an important part of both success and happiness?
Are the people in your city obsessed with a certain sport or activity? How does where you live affect your interests, attitudes, and outcome?
Movie Details
- In theaters : September 9, 2022
- On DVD or streaming : October 18, 2022
- Cast : Blake Biondi , Elliot Van Orsdel , Indio Dowd
- Director : Tommy Haines
- Studio : Greenwich Entertainment
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Friendship , History
- Run time : 109 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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