Slap Shot

Slap Shot

Year: 1977

Runtime: 123 min

Language: English

Director: George Roy Hill

DramaSportComedy

Two unconventional brothers take on the challenge of coaching a ragtag minor league hockey team. Through unorthodox methods and sheer determination, they strive to turn their underdog squad into championship contenders while facing hilarious obstacles along the way.

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Timeline & Setting – Slap Shot (1977)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Slap Shot (1977). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie is set during a period of economic struggle in the late 20th century, reflecting the decline of traditional manufacturing in towns like Charlestown. During this time, there were significant changes in the sports landscape, with a growing emphasis on entertainment value over traditional sportsmanship in professional hockey.

Location

Charlestown, Pennsylvania

Charlestown is a charming, economically challenged town in Pennsylvania, known for its local steel mill that is vital for the livelihood of its residents. The town has a rich sports culture, particularly with its passionate support for the minor league hockey team, the Charlestown Chiefs. As the mill faces closure, the community's spirit hinges on the success of the team.

🏙️ Town 🏒 Hockey 🏭 Industry

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:38

Main Characters – Slap Shot (1977)
Meet the key characters of Slap Shot (1977), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Reggie Dunlop (Paul Newman)

Reggie Dunlop is the resourceful and charismatic player-coach of the Charlestown Chiefs. As he navigates the challenges of a struggling team and a looming economic crisis, Dunlop demonstrates creative thinking and leadership. He is determined to revitalize the team while facing moral dilemmas in the aggressive tactics he employs.

🏒 Coach 💡 Creative 💪 Resilient

Joe McGrath (Strother Martin)

Joe McGrath is the team's manager, known for his drastic measures aimed at revitalizing the Chiefs. His willingness to embrace chaos and unconventional strategies reflects the desperation of the situation. McGrath's character serves as a catalyst for the team's transformation into an aggressive hockey squad.

🏒 Manager 📈 Ambitious ⚡ Risk-taker

Ned Braden (Michael Ontkean)

Ned Braden is a key player for the Chiefs who grapples with the escalating violence on the ice. His principled stand against the chaos highlights the internal conflict within the team. Braden's journey reveals the struggle between adhering to sportsmanship and the desire to support his teammates in a time of crisis.

🏒 Player ⚖️ Principled 💔 Conflict

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:38

Major Themes – Slap Shot (1977)
Explore the central themes of Slap Shot (1977), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💪 Resilience

The theme of resilience permeates the film as the Charlestown Chiefs fight against their impending demise. Despite numerous setbacks, both on and off the ice, the characters demonstrate their determination to preserve their pride and community spirit through unconventional means. This resilience is symbolized by the transformation of the team's play style, capturing the town's defiance against adversity.

🔥 Chaos

Chaos erupts both on and off the ice as the Chiefs embrace a rough and aggressive style of play. This theme illustrates how the characters resort to extreme measures in response to their precarious situation, seeking to reignite audience interest and support. The ensuing brawls highlight the tension between sportsmanship and the pursuit of excitement, culminating in a spectacle that captivates fans.

❤️ Community Spirit

Community spirit is a central theme, as the film showcases the tight-knit relationships among the residents of Charlestown. The hockey team embodies the town's identity, and their struggles resonate deeply with the community. The locals unite behind the Chiefs, emphasizing the power of sports to foster connections and bring hope amidst economic downturns.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:38

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