MYSTERY, ALASKA

CAPSULE REVIEW –– Filmed before Russell Crowe became an international sensation, this underdog sports comedy written by television impresario David E. Kelly, is held aloft by Crowe's subtle and intense performance. There's just something about him, even in a film with a plot as tried and true as this. He plays the oldest member of a small Alaskan town's local hockey team. These people live and breathe hockey, learning to skate before they can walk. An opportunity for the locals team to play the NY Rangers in their own backyard sends the townspeople into a tizzy. The PR from a game like this could put Mystery on the map, which may not be such a good thing. Problems abound as the team prepares for the biggest game of their lives. This is mostly a light comedy, but it wouldn't be David Kelly if it didn't have some truly heartfelt moments. The film has an episodic feel, with too many characters to really get a handle on, that plays better on TV than it did in the theater. The only person with any depth to their role or their acting is Crowe. McCormack and Reynolds are the only ones who come close to his level. The hockey sequences are quite well-shot, especially the ones for the big game. A decent feature effort that is enjoyable enough and has the smarts to end on a realistic note. A real Crowe-pleaser.