The Russian Five

It's not unusual for a sports documentary to allude to the values or politics of a community, but it is rare for one to explore both global political themes as thoroughly as it immerses itself in the local tribalism of sports. This film unfolds a specific corner of the picture of the Cold War through the journeys of five men who left the Soviet Union to play hockey in North America. We find out about the risks they each took and the people who risked political and professional threats to bring them to the other side of the Iron Curtain

The producers of this film have a great deal of access to the players themselves and the American team officials that brought them to the US, so we get the story told in their own words as well as views of contemporary news coverage and the players' North American team mates. We get to see the events and recall the emotions of the era and we have the perspective of history to see their lasting impact on the game of hockey.

This movie has a lot for fans of the Detroit Red Wings, but any fan of the NHL or international hockey will likely find the story riveting

A must-watch for any hockey fan. The Redwings aren't even my team. I only recognised 2-3 names in the entire documentary. I knew nothing of this story prior to viewing "The Russian Five". But by the end, I had completely fallen in love with this story and the team.

It has cold war elements that would rival the best spy thrillers. It has a meshing of cultures, languages, triumphs over adversity and sheer grit and determination.

You can't help but feed off the energy, the passion and the sheer inspiration of these guys. The documentary itself moves along at the speed of a puck. Animated reenactments, interviews and footage of the era all combine to create a gripping documentary.

I wasn't expecting to get emotional (numerous times) while watching a documentary about hockey. Particularly of a team I didn't even really know. That alone is testament to the filmmakers and the incredible story of the Russian Five.

Compulsory viewing for hockey fans and sports lovers alike. Important viewing also at a time like this.

Having been a lifelong fan of the Wings, I lived through the disappointing 70's and 80's, and this documentary brought back a lot of memories of continued disappointment and finally the elation of the team finally coming together to end the 42 year drought.

With many interviews of the players who made the dream a reality, and showing the tragedy that befell after the cup win, it is well made and emotional.

I would recommend this to any hockey fan, and obviously it's a must see for any Detroit Red Wings fan.

Grew up in So.Cal. Hockey wasn't something I grew up with. Don't really know the game but I've always liked the action of it and the skill. This documentary was SUPERB. Very creative with the cartoon sketching "injections." Provides a great "lesson" on that period and so, so very heartfelt regarding the team members and what they experienced. The heart of the movie! If only more documentaries were like this!!!!

It has it all, you fell uncomfortable at the beginning, then comes the warm feeling of pride. You feel happiness with the team and sadness at the end. This movie touches every emotion on the spectrum.