By Chlotrudis Independent Film Society
Rating: 3.5 cats
Director: Paul Gross
Starring: Conor Price | Leslie Nielsen | Molly Parker | Paul Gross
Country: canada
Year: 2003
Running time: 102
IMDB: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0263734/combined
Michael says: “If you see only ONE film about curling, make sure it’s the Canadian romantic comedy, MEN WITH BROOMS. (I challenge you to even find another film about curling.) Since becoming fascinated with this Canadian sport after seeing a live tournament (is that what you call it?) on ESPN a couple of weeks ago, I snapped up this film. I had actually been meaning to watch it because it co-stars a Canadian favorite of mine, Molly Parker (MARION BRIDGE.) While the plot falls into the category of the BEND IT LIKE BECKHAM, FULL MONTY simplistic, feel-good variety, its quirky Canadianness and odd subject matter make it an enjoyable film.
“When their coach dies, four life-long friends who have gone their separate ways after failing to win the Golden Broom, the local ‘Superbowl’ of curling, are reunited by his last wishes. Naturally, in this small town, there are endless connections that are all humorously explored. The Captain of the team, Chris, disappeared after their failure at the last Golden Broom, leaving a fiancée at the altar. His return stirs up all sorts of emotions, not only with the ex-fiancee, now a well-known astronaut, but her sister Amy (Parker) who has long been in love with him. Chris also reveals to his teammates the reason why he left before. He cheated in the last match and didn’t tell anyone. There is also an issue with his own father (played by Leslie Nielsen), who becomes the teams new coach.
“Chris is played by Paul Gross, known by some south of the border, as Constable Benton Fraser, from TV’s ‘Due South.’ He also appeared in the TV miniseries ‘Tales of the City.’ Gross co-wrote, produced, starred in and directed this film, which rises above its formulaic plot. Molly Parker shines as usual, in a natural and warm performance.” 3 1/2 cats