Watch The Rocket: The Legend of Rocket Richard

The Rocket: The Legend of Rocket Richard is a 2005 Canadian biographical film that tells the story of Maurice "Rocket" Richard, a legendary ice hockey player who became an icon in Quebec during the 1940s and 1950s. The movie is directed by Charles Binamé and stars Roy Dupuis as Richard, Stephen McHattie as Toe Blake, and Julie LeBreton as Richard's wife, Lucille.

The movie begins in the 1930s, with Richard working at a factory and playing hockey on the side. He is discovered by Blake, who takes him under his wing and helps him develop his skills. Richard quickly becomes a star player and becomes known for his speed, agility, and his trademark slapshot.

The Rocket explores Richard's rise to fame, as he becomes a hero to the people of Quebec and a symbol of their independence from English Canada. However, Richard's success is not without its challenges. He faces prejudice from English-speaking NHL officials and players, who view him as a hot-headed troublemaker.

One of the movie's most powerful scenes takes place during a game in 1955, when Richard is suspended for hitting an official. The suspension sparks a riot in Montreal, with thousands of fans taking to the streets to protest what they see as an injustice. The scene is both dramatic and moving, as it shows the deep connection between Richard and the people of Quebec.

Apart from Richard's struggles against prejudice and injustice, The Rocket also explores his personal life. The movie portrays Richard as a humble and down-to-earth family man, who is deeply devoted to his wife and children. Julie LeBreton shines in her role as Lucille, bringing depth and emotional complexity to the character.

At its core, The Rocket is a movie about passion and perseverance. It shows how Richard's love for hockey, and his dedication to his craft, allowed him to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness. The movie is also a tribute to the enduring legacy of a great athlete and a cultural icon.

The film is beautifully shot, with period-accurate costumes and sets that bring the 1940s and 1950s to life. The hockey scenes are particularly well-done, with fast-paced action and tight cinematography that captures the intensity of the game. The movie also features a haunting musical score composed by Jean Mallet.

Overall, The Rocket: The Legend of Rocket Richard is a must-see movie for fans of hockey, biographical dramas, or Canadian cinema. It is a moving tribute to a great athlete and cultural icon, and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

The Rocket: The Legend of Rocket Richard is a 2007 drama. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.