Ice Breakers: A short documentary film to watch (with the kids)

For the past few years, I’ve been trying to watch more documentaries and films that are based on a true story with the kids. There is something special about these films, because on the one hand, sure, they’re entertaining, but on the other, they also present an opportunity for us to learn new things and ultimately increase our understanding, by taking the time to learn more about a particular topic. They can even allow us to change our perspectives about current issues and modify our behaviour accordingly. Sometimes, they push us to engage in more research to deepen our knowledge. With more and more documentaries and films based on real-life events available, there is certainly no shortage of choice.

Photo credit : National Film Board of Canada

I was invited to preview (before its release) the documentary film Ice Breakers, available in English and French. It tells the story of Josh Crooks, a young African-Canadian hockey player with a talent for a sport played mostly by whites. Ice Breakers reveals the overlooked story of how black athletes, particularly those of the Colored Hockey League of the Maritimes, helped launch modern hockey, as Crooks discovers that his passion for the sport is linked to a remarkable heritage.

Photo credit : National Film Board of Canada

I found Josh’s story very touching, and in all honesty, I had never really noticed hockey players’ race, nor had I given the subject much thought at all. In my mind an athlete is an athlete, regardless of his skin colour. After seeing the film, I admit that I now have a different view of sports and the space occupied by athletes of colour.   

Photo credit : National Film Board of Canada

Josh’s story made me reflect on this: I believe that we as parents have an important role to play in raising our children. We live in a world where, in my humble opinion, empathy, openness, tolerance and curiosity must be present in all aspects of our lives. We often think we know all there is to know about something, but that’s not necessarily the case.

You can watch the film for free here.

Even if the hockey season is over, this short documentary is well worth watching and is only 15 minutes long. I encourage you to watch as a family, with your kids. Whether your household is athletically inclined, creatively minded or a mix of the two, I hope that the film will bring about reflection or discussion after you watch it. At the very least, that it will remind you of the importance of having an open mind – towards yourself and others. It’s a must-see if you’re a hockey mom.

Let me know what you think of the film.

Jaime xo

Disclaimer: This text is presented in collaboration with the National Film Board of Canada. As always, the opinions expressed are 100% mine.

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