Russell Delivers

Rating: 8/10 (6 February 2004)

After seeing this movie opening night (I'm a huge hockey fan), I have to say that Kurt Russell is definitely the driving force behind the film. Overall, it was a great depiction of the events leading up and involving the memorable 1980 Olympic win, but without Russell, this movie wouldn't have been nearly as good as it was. He stays very true to playing Herb Brooks as he actually was and it's a true honor to Brooks's memory to have a stellar performer give a great performance in his name. I've honestly never seen Russell this good. But then again, I feel like he doesn't do enough films that give him a chance to act to his potential. I need to also add that the kids in this film were OK, and at times you can sense that their acting is forced, but since this is a team movie, none of that really ends up being bothersome because it's easy to forget about the individual players and just focus on Brooks. Let's face it, this movie isn't just about a great moment in sports history, it's about one man's dream and how he made his vision possible. This movie is about Brooks, and in so being, it's all about Kurt Russell's performance.