Six Free Films About Hockey!

Hockey is, perhaps, the best game that involves using a curved stick to shoot a disk made of vulcanized rubber into a net. The first ice hockey game was played in the 19th century, igniting a passion for the sport that has continued to the present day, making it the quintessential Canadian pastime.

Unsurprisingly, the National Film Board of Canada has produced more than its fair share of hockey-related films. Many of these films reflect the love and dedication we all share for the game. More still explore the very personal stories of the players themselves. History, competition, loss, and triumph all play a part in hockey, so it’s only natural that our films embody that spirit.
So slap on a pair of skates, and hit the ice for six free hockey films that are pucking awesome.

The Sweater

The Sweater, Sheldon Cohen, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

One of the most beloved NFB classics in our archives, this short animation based on the book The Hockey Sweater tells the tale of a particularly mortifying moment in Roch Carrier’s life. During a time when everyone else in his school proudly wore the number 9 jersey of Maurice “The Rocket” Richard, Carrier was instead given a jersey of the rival Toronto Maple Leafs! The horror! How will he ever be able to face his friends at school? Well, watch and find out! The perfect film for hockey fans of all ages.

Just Another Job

Just Another Job, Pierre Letarte, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

For those nostalgic for the Quebec Nordiques, this is the film for you. Incisive and charming, this documentary takes you right into the pre-season tension and action, as the team, led by the legendary Maurice Richard, prepare themselves for the opening game of the season.

The Thunderbirds in China

Thunderbirds in China, Les Rose, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

A free full-length documentary for your viewing pleasure, this film takes us all the way to China, where the University of British Columbia’s own Thunderbirds battle that country’s best hockey teams. A hockey film with an international flavour, this doc perfectly encapsulates just how universal the language of hockey is.

The Rocket

The Rocket, Jacques Payette, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

A man who needs no introduction, Maurice “The Rocket” Richard is one of the most beloved hockey players of all time. And, in this one-of-a-kind documentary, we are treated with a deep dive into his life, following his meteoric career from the 1940s to the 1950s. Featuring in-depth interviews and classic footage, this is a can’t-miss film for any old-school hockey fan.

The Rink

The Rink, Gilles Carle, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

A short film made by acclaimed Quebec director Giles Carle, this documentary captures the perfect Sunday afternoon at a local skating rink. Full of fun, excitement and, of course, hockey. A feel-good film you won’t want to miss.

Blades and Brass

Blades and Brass, William Canning, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

Stylishly filmed, this classic NFB doc takes us back in time to the year 1967. Here, the very best of that season’s NHL games are spliced together into a perfectly cut highlight reel that is set to awesome and catchy music reminiscent of the Tijuana Brass. A great film that showcases the skill and grace of the game.

Craving more? Don’t puck around—we’ve got enough hockey content to put you in a goal-den state of mind!

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