Review of Slap Shot (1977) by Dave R — 26 Sep 2011

A great sports film that earns its R-rating with coarse language and humor that feels realistic and, in a way, endearing. You can't help but root for these neanderthals, even though most of them are just thinking about fighting and fucking. Newman is the dramatic anchor, though Ontkean is the perfect counter to him once he starts going for blood. I really enjoyed how Slap Shot was about how the sport of hockey descended into brawling, and the final game is a perfect combination of comedy and commentary. Plus, who doesn't want to see Michael Ontkean striptease on the rink? That shit's just funny.

Slap Shot doesn't shoot for greatness, but it attains it precisely because of that. It feels heartfelt and real, and it's damn funny too.