Red Army

Fascinating, funny, heroic, moving and may even make hockey fans out of nonbelievers.

It's a mark of Polsky's ambition and canniness that he braids hockey not just with geopolitics but also with personal history and human drama.

Polsky keeps things lively, both visually and with his editing. But the sometimes-lighthearted approach never undermines the serious business at hand.

On the surface it's the story of one particular hockey player, but it reflects so much more.

It's a story of global consequences and historic proportions, and of astounding athleticism and synchronicity - and filmmaker Polsky ices it.

Wittily edited and beautifully scored, "Red Army" is not just a terrific film but an important one - even if you don't give two hoots about ice hockey.

There's a lesson here for fans of any contemporary sport and an absolutely thrilling tale, impeccably assembled besides. Sporting glory awaits, even for those viewers who couldn't tell a jockstrap from a jellybean.

Part of the interest in watching Red Army is in gauging the fluctuating relationship between Polsky and his chief subject: Fetisov can be distinctly laconic, appearing to give up his time and memories rather reluctantly.

Red Army keeps a light tone even when dealing with serious issues, and is chock-full of great stock footage.

It is fascinating viewing and this unfolds so much like a feature film it's remarkable the movie rights haven't already been snapped up. Someone call Stallone.

Through a vivid collection of clips and interviews, this enlightening, rousing documentary shows us how these proud but cautious athletes have a complex love-hate relationship with the place they call home.