The 1981 film "Miracle on Ice" is a docudrama that sought to capture the essence of the United States men's national ice hockey team's unexpected victory over the Soviet Union during the 1980 Winter Olympics. Directed by Steven Hilliard Stern and starring Karl Malden as coach Herb Brooks, the film aimed to bring to life the extraordinary events that led to what is now known as the "Miracle on Ice."
The Film's Approach to the Story
"Miracle on Ice" premiered as part of The ABC Sunday
Night Movie series, and it attempted to recreate the intense atmosphere surrounding the U.S. team's journey to Olympic glory. The film focused on the rigorous training and selection process led by coach Herb Brooks, who was portrayed as a hard-driving, no-nonsense leader. Brooks had to trim a list of 68 college players down to 20, a task that involved dealing with players' agents and financial concerns.
The film incorporated actual game footage and commentary from ABC broadcasters Al Michaels and Ken Dryden, blending these elements with staged scenes to maintain authenticity. Despite these efforts, the film faced criticism for its portrayal of the players and the events. Some reviewers felt that the film reduced the players to mere caricatures, failing to capture the true essence of the sport and the individuals involved.
Reception and Criticism
Upon its release, "Miracle on Ice" received mixed reviews. John J. O'Connor of the New York Times described it as an inspirational sports film that successfully recaptured an extraordinary moment. However, he also noted that the film was sprinkled with unnecessary romantic subplots and failed to delve into the players' post-Olympic careers.
Critics pointed out that the film's attempt to inject romance and drama detracted from the historical significance of the event. The portrayal of coach Herb Brooks by Karl Malden was met with skepticism, as some felt Malden was too old for the role and lacked the charisma of the real Brooks. Despite these criticisms, the film remains a notable attempt to dramatize one of the most iconic moments in sports history.
Legacy and Comparison to Later Works
"Miracle on Ice" paved the way for future portrayals of the 1980 Olympic victory, most notably the 2004 film "Miracle," starring Kurt Russell as Herb Brooks. The latter film was praised for its more accurate depiction of the events and the use of real hockey players as actors. While "Miracle on Ice" focused more on individual players' stories, "Miracle" emphasized the team's dynamics and the socio-political context of the time.
Despite its shortcomings, "Miracle on Ice" remains a part of the cultural legacy surrounding the 1980 Olympic victory. It serves as a reminder of the challenges in translating real-life events into film, highlighting the balance between dramatization and historical accuracy. The film's attempt to capture the spirit of the "Miracle on Ice" continues to be a point of reference for discussions about sports films and their impact on popular culture.
