Best Hockey Documentaries: Finding the Perfect Hockey Documentaries for You
Ice hockey is a fast-paced sport that can be exciting to watch. And with this list of the best hockey documentaries, you can learn more about the sport and some of its most famous players.
This list of the best hockey documentaries will feature the top options when it comes to hockey documentaries and what you should watch next. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the sport or just curious about it, these documentaries will take you on an exciting journey.
When you finish with this list of the best hockey documentaries, make sure you check out our lists of the best hockey movies, best hockey websites, and best hockey sticks. These lists will provide even more hockey resources and information for you to look over.
Top 19 Hockey Documentaries:
1. Red Army
Price: $7.96
About Hockey Documentary: Red Army tells the story of the legendary Soviet ice hockey team, diving into Cold War politics and sportsmanship. It highlights the personal lives of players and their intense rivalries with Western teams. A must-watch for hockey and history fans alike.
2. The Russian Five
Price: $9.99
About Hockey Documentary: This film chronicles the journey of five Russian players who revolutionized the Detroit Red Wings and the NHL. Their story is one of defiance, adaptation, and triumph. A gripping look at cultural clash and hockey brilliance.
3. Miracle
Price: $17.99
About Hockey Documentary: Miracle recounts the incredible 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team’s victory over the Soviet Union. Featuring real footage and dramatized moments, it’s an emotional retelling of the “Miracle on Ice.” A classic underdog story in sports history.
4. Ice Guardians
Price: $11.50
About Hockey Documentary: Ice Guardians explores the role of the enforcer in hockey, offering candid interviews with players and experts. It sheds light on the physical and emotional demands of this unique position. A powerful tribute to hockey’s toughest players.
5. Pond Hockey
Price: $16.25
About Hockey Documentary: Pond Hockey celebrates the grassroots essence of the sport, focusing on outdoor hockey traditions. Through heartfelt stories, it captures the spirit of community rinks and frozen lakes. A nostalgic look at hockey’s purest form.
6. Hockeyland
Price: $9.99
About Hockey Documentary: Hockeyland dives into the world of Minnesota high school hockey, spotlighting small-town rivalries and dreams. It portrays the deep cultural ties between the state and the sport. A moving documentary about passion and local pride.
7. Soul on Ice: Past, Present and Future
Price: $12.89
About Hockey Documentary: Soul on Ice tells the story of Black athletes in hockey, addressing struggles, progress, and representation. It highlights pioneers who broke racial barriers and paved the way for future players. An essential watch on diversity in the sport.
8. Crashing the Net: The U.S. Women’s Olympic Ice Hockey Team and the Road to Gold
Price: $7.04
About Hockey Documentary: the Net reveals the journey of the U.S. Women’s Olympic Hockey Team’s pursuit of gold. Behind-the-scenes footage and emotional interviews showcase their dedication and challenges. A testament to the rise of women’s hockey.
9. Legends of Hockey
Price: $43.32
About Hockey Documentary: Legends of Hockey is an expansive series profiling the NHL’s greatest icons. With rare footage and personal stories, it celebrates the players who shaped the game. A must-see for any serious hockey fan.
10. The Last Gladiators
Price: $9.99
About Hockey Documentary: This film focuses on enforcers like Chris “Knuckles” Nilan, delving into the mental and physical toll of the role. It explores the culture of fighting in hockey and its lasting impact. A raw, eye-opening documentary.
11. The Boys of Winter
Price: $14.99
About Hockey Documentary: The Boys of Winter revisits Canada’s 1972 Summit Series victory over the Soviet Union. It explores the intense national pride and rivalry that defined this historic event. A key chapter in hockey’s international legacy.
12. Faceoff: Inside The NHL
Price: Membership
About Hockey Documentary: Faceoff: Inside The NHL takes viewers behind the scenes of professional hockey operations. It showcases the business, strategy, and personal stories of players and executives. An insider’s look at life in the NHL.
13. The Rink
Price: $2.99
About Hockey Documentary: The Rink explores the significance of a small Brooklyn ice rink in nurturing young hockey talent. It’s a heartfelt look at community, mentorship, and the love of the game. Perfect for fans of grassroots sports stories.
14. Scotty: A Hockey Life Like No Other
Price: $13.99
About Hockey Documentary: Scotty follows the legendary career of coach Scotty Bowman, the most successful coach in NHL history. It dives into his methods, legacy, and the personal sacrifices behind his success. A must-watch for hockey historians.
15. The Puck Stops Here
Price: $7.99
About Hockey Documentary: This documentary spotlights goaltenders and their unique role in hockey. It covers the pressures, skills, and mindset required to succeed between the pipes. A fascinating look at hockey’s last line of defense.
16. Hockey: A People’s History
Price: $18.22
About Hockey Documentary: This comprehensive series traces hockey’s evolution from its humble beginnings to its global influence. It combines historical footage with modern insights, celebrating the sport’s deep cultural impact.
17. NHL Minnesota Wild -The State of Hockey
Price: $10.34
About Hockey Documentary: This documentary showcases the Minnesota Wild’s role in perpetuating the state’s hockey culture. It highlights the passion of fans, players, and communities. A local love letter to the sport.
18. The Father of Hockey
Price: Membership
About Hockey Documentary: The Father of Hockey tells the story of James Creighton, often credited with organizing the first indoor hockey game. It’s an insightful dive into the sport’s early history and roots.
19. The Boys of Winter: The Untold Story of a Coach, a Dream, and the 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team
Price: $13.40
About Hockey Documentary: This documentary offers a deeper look into the iconic 1980 “Miracle on Ice” team, focusing on Coach Herb Brooks. It explores the team’s journey, challenges, and lasting impact on American sports.
Editor’s Pick: Best Hockey Documentary for History and Drama
Red Army earns our Editor’s Pick as the best hockey documentary for its rich historical narrative and dramatic storytelling. It offers an unparalleled look into the Soviet Union’s powerhouse hockey team and how sports were intertwined with Cold War tensions. The combination of archival footage, personal interviews, and behind-the-scenes political insight makes this film a standout. For those interested in hockey’s impact beyond the rink, Red Army is essential viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Hockey Documentaries
What is the most popular hockey documentary of all time?
Miracle is widely regarded as one of the most beloved hockey documentaries. While technically a dramatized retelling, it incorporates real footage and accurately portrays the historic 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team’s underdog triumph.
Are there any documentaries that focus on Black athletes in hockey?
Yes, Soul on Ice: Past, Present and Future explores the role of Black athletes in hockey, highlighting trailblazers and addressing diversity within the sport.
Which hockey documentary is best for learning about grassroots hockey?
Pond Hockey and The Rink are excellent for fans who want to connect with the community-based origins of the sport. They highlight the culture and spirit of hockey at the local level.
Are there any good documentaries about hockey coaching legends?
Scotty: A Hockey Life Like No Other offers a deep dive into the life of legendary coach Scotty Bowman, providing insight into his coaching philosophy and unmatched career achievements.
Where can I watch these hockey documentaries?
Many of the documentaries are available for purchase or rent on platforms like Amazon, iTunes, or YouTube. Some may also be available on streaming services or through NHL-specific memberships.
Tips for Choosing the Best Hockey Documentaries for Your Interests
1. Consider Your Favorite Hockey Era or Storyline
If you love Cold War-era sports or international rivalries, Red Army or The Boys of Winter will be right up your alley. Fans of modern NHL might prefer Faceoff: Inside The NHL or Hockeyland.
2. Look for Documentaries That Match Your Perspective
Want to see the game from a player’s point of view? Try Ice Guardians or The Last Gladiators. If you’re interested in the evolution of the sport, Hockey: A People’s History delivers a thorough timeline.
3. Don’t Overlook Women’s and Minority Representation
Crashing the Net and Soul on Ice offer important perspectives on the sport’s growth in underrepresented communities. These stories add depth and dimension to hockey’s ongoing legacy.
4. Explore Both Emotional and Strategic Stories
Some documentaries, like The Russian Five, focus on cultural impact and player emotion. Others, like Faceoff: Inside The NHL, highlight the business and strategy behind the game.
5. Choose Based on Length and Format
Shorter standalone films like The Puck Stops Here are great for quick viewing, while series like Legends of Hockey and Hockey: A People’s History are better suited for deeper binge sessions.
Best Hockey Documentaries Conclusion
There are a number of great hockey documentaries that are definitely worth watching. These films provide insights into the sport, its players and its fans.
Whether you’re a hardcore hockey fan or just someone who enjoys a good documentary, these films are sure to entertain and educate.
If you have watched any of these hockey documentaries before, we would love to hear your feedback below in the comments.
