“Mystery Alaska” is a sports comedy-drama film released in 1999, directed by Jay Roach. The movie stars Russell Crowe as Sheriff John Biebe, Hank Azaria as Charles Danner, and Mary McCormack as Donna Biebe.
The story is set in the small, remote town of Mystery, Alaska, where hockey is a way of life for its residents. The town’s amateur hockey team, made up of local players, has a strong tradition and plays on a legendary pond known as the Mystery, Alaska hockey rink.
One day, a former resident turned sports commentator, Charles Danner, comes back to Mystery and convinces the National Hockey League (NHL) to arrange an exhibition match between the New York Rangers and the Mystery hockey team. The match will be televised nationally, putting the small town and its players in the spotlight.
As the residents of Mystery prepare for the big game, tensions rise, friendships are tested, and the town’s sense of identity is challenged. Sheriff John Biebe, once a star player, struggles with self-doubt and finds himself at odds with his teammates and the town.
“Mystery Alaska” is known for its portrayal of the camaraderie and passion that sports can bring to a community, as well as its comedic and heartfelt moments. The film explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the enduring spirit of the underdog.
The movie received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its performances and the hockey scenes but criticism for its predictability and lack of depth in certain areas.
“Mystery Alaska” serves as a touchstone for viewers seeking a heartwarming and entertaining sports film that celebrates the love of the game and the spirit of a close-knit community. It remains a fun and enjoyable film that captures the essence of small-town life and the power of sports to unite and inspire.
Additional Details
- Movie Studio: Hollywood Pictures
- Year Released: 1999
- Type of Movie: Live Action
- Box Office: $8.89 million
- IMDB Link
Cast
- Russell Crowe: Sheriff John Biebe
- Hank Azaria: Charles Danner
- Mary McCormack: Donna Biebe
- Burt Reynolds: Judge Walter Burns
- Colm Meaney: Mayor Scott R. Pitcher
- Lolita Davidovich: Mary Jane Pitcher
- Maury Chaykin: Bailey Pruitt
- Ron Eldard: Matt “Skank” Marden
- Michael Buie – Connor Banks
- Ryan Northcott: Stevie Weeks
- Beth Littleford: Janice Pettiboe
- Kevin Durand: “Tree” Lane
- Scott Grimes: Brian “Birdie” Burns
- Jason Gray-Stanford: Bobby Michan
- Adam Beach: Galin Winetka
- Leroy Peltier – Ben Winetka
- Cameron Bancroft: “Tinker” Connolly
- Michael McKean: Mr. Walsh
- Rachel Wilson: Marla Burns
- Megyn Price: Sarah Heinz
- Judith Ivey: Mrs. Joanne Burns
- Terry David Mulligan: Dr. Henry Savage
- Mike Myers: Donnie Shulzhoffer
- Jim Fox: himself
- Phil Esposito: himself
- Little Richard: himself
- L. Scott Caldwell: Judge McGibbons
- Steve Levy: himself
- Barry Melrose: himself
Crew
- Director: Jay Roach
- Producer: David Kelley
- Writer: David Kelley and Sean O’Byrne
