If you’re a fan of Judd Apatow movies, then you’ve probably seen the 2012 comedy, “This Is 40”. This movie follows the lives of Pete and Debbie, a couple going through the ups and downs of marriage and raising children. But what you might not know is that the movie features some unexpected guest stars – hockey players. That’s right, “This Is 40” includes some surprising appearances from former NHL players.
While Paul Rudd’s character, Pete, is a hockey player in the movie, the other players on his team are also notable. Some are played by actors, while others are played by actual former NHL players. So, who exactly are the hockey players in “This Is 40”? We’ve done some digging and uncovered the shocking truth about the players featured in the movie.
If you’re a hockey fan or just love the movie, you won’t want to miss this insider look at the surprising stars of “This Is 40”. Keep reading to discover which hockey players made an appearance and some behind-the-scenes information about the making of the hockey scenes in the movie.
Ready to lace up your skates and hit the ice? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Paul Rudd’s character, Pete, plays in a pick-up hockey league
In the 2012 comedy-drama film, This Is 40, Paul Rudd plays the character of Pete, a middle-aged father and husband. In one of the film’s most memorable scenes, Pete laces up his hockey skates and joins his friends for a pick-up hockey game. This scene highlights Pete’s love for the sport and the camaraderie that comes with playing in a league with friends.
The pick-up hockey game also serves as a metaphor for the challenges and rewards of middle-age. As Pete navigates the ice, he faces physical obstacles that come with age but also finds joy and laughter in the game. The scene captures the humor and heart that makes This Is 40 such a beloved film.
The Benefits of Playing Hockey
Hockey is a sport that requires speed, agility, and strength. It is a full-body workout that can help improve cardiovascular health, endurance, and balance. Playing hockey can also improve hand-eye coordination and enhance cognitive function. As a team sport, hockey provides social benefits such as building friendships and a sense of community.
The Growth of Pick-Up Hockey Leagues
Pick-up hockey leagues have become increasingly popular in recent years. These informal leagues allow players to come together and play in a low-pressure environment without the commitment of a full-season league. Pick-up leagues are also a great way for adults to stay active and connected with their community.
- Benefits of pick-up hockey leagues:
- Flexible scheduling
- No long-term commitment
- Lower cost compared to traditional leagues
The Connection Between Hockey and Canadian Culture
Hockey is a sport that is deeply connected to Canadian culture. The sport’s roots can be traced back to early Canadian settlements, and it has since become an integral part of Canadian identity. Hockey is celebrated in Canada through the National Hockey League (NHL) and international competitions such as the Olympics.
Playing hockey in Canada is seen as a rite of passage, and the sport has played a significant role in shaping Canadian culture. Many Canadians grow up playing hockey, and the sport is often seen as a way to bring communities together.
Ready to hit the ice? Lace up your skates and join a pick-up league near you to experience the physical and social benefits of playing hockey.
Several former NHL players make appearances in the movie
Aside from the cast of comedic geniuses, “This Is 40” also features a number of cameos from former NHL players. These players bring authenticity to the film, and add an extra layer of excitement for hockey fans. One of the most notable appearances is by Boston Bruins legend, Cam Neely, who plays the character of “Scoot McNairy.”
But Neely is not the only former NHL player to make an appearance. Other players who appear in the movie include Daryl Evans, Ian Laperriere, and Mike Modano. Their cameos add a sense of realism to the movie, and help to solidify the hockey theme that runs throughout.
The Role of Cam Neely
Cam Neely’s role in the movie is not just a simple cameo. In fact, he plays a pivotal role in the plot. Neely’s character, “Scoot McNairy,” is the owner of the pick-up hockey league that Paul Rudd’s character, Pete, plays in. Neely’s character brings a tough and gritty energy to the league, and is not afraid to get physical with the players.
Other Former NHL Players in the Film
In addition to Cam Neely, several other former NHL players make appearances in “This Is 40.” Daryl Evans, who played for the Los Angeles Kings, appears as a referee in the movie. Ian Laperriere, who played for the Philadelphia Flyers, appears as a coach. And Mike Modano, who played for the Dallas Stars, appears as himself in a scene with Paul Rudd’s character, Pete.
The Importance of Authenticity
The cameos by former NHL players in “This Is 40” add an element of authenticity to the movie. The use of real players, in real hockey gear, helps to make the movie feel more realistic. It also adds an extra layer of excitement for hockey fans, who can recognize these players and appreciate their appearances in the film.
- Authenticity adds realism to the film
- The use of real players makes the movie feel more genuine
- The appearances by former NHL players excite hockey fans
The hockey scenes were filmed at a real rink in Burbank, California
Hockey fans might be surprised to learn that the hockey scenes in the movie were actually filmed at a real rink in Burbank, California. The rink was transformed to look like a professional arena, complete with logos of the teams that played in the league. The filmmakers went to great lengths to make sure the hockey scenes looked authentic, even hiring former NHL player Rob Blake as a consultant.
The rink was a popular spot for hockey players and fans alike, and many of them were excited to see their beloved sport depicted on the big screen. In fact, some of the extras in the hockey scenes were actual hockey players, including a few who had played professionally in Europe.
The transformation of the rink
- The rink was transformed to look like a professional arena
- The logos of the teams that played in the league were added
- The hockey scenes were shot over several weeks to get everything just right
The involvement of former NHL player Rob Blake
Rob Blake, who played in the NHL for over 20 years, was brought on as a consultant to help make sure the hockey scenes looked as authentic as possible. He worked closely with the actors to teach them the finer points of hockey, such as how to hold a stick, skate properly, and make a pass.
The excitement of the hockey community
The hockey scenes in the movie were a big hit with the local hockey community, who were thrilled to see their sport depicted on the big screen. Many of them turned out to watch the filming and even got to be extras in the movie. It was a great opportunity for hockey fans and players alike to be part of a Hollywood production and see their sport showcased in a new and exciting way.
The cast had to undergo intense hockey training to prepare for their roles
The cast of “Mystery, Alaska” not only had to learn their lines, but they also had to undergo intensive hockey training to prepare for their roles as amateur players in the movie. This was particularly important because the hockey scenes were central to the film’s plot and had to be as authentic as possible.
The training was supervised by former NHL player, turned hockey coach, Barry Karn, who taught the actors everything they needed to know about the sport. The actors practiced for several months and even competed in games against other teams to improve their skills and get a real sense of what it’s like to be a hockey player.
The training was grueling
- The actors had to wake up early every morning to train
- They trained for several hours every day
- They had to learn how to skate and maneuver on the ice
- They practiced passing, shooting, and teamwork
The training paid off
All the hard work paid off as the hockey scenes in “Mystery, Alaska” were hailed as some of the most authentic and exciting in movie history. The actors looked like they had been playing hockey all their lives and were able to execute the plays and moves with precision and skill. The hockey scenes also helped to establish the camaraderie and friendship between the characters, which was crucial to the film’s story.
The training inspired some of the actors to continue playing hockey
- Russell Crowe continued to play hockey after the movie was finished
- Michael Buie became an amateur hockey coach in real life
- Scott Grimes formed a hockey team with some of his co-stars and competed in local tournaments
The movie features a memorable scene involving a game of “penis hockey”
The 2008 comedy film “Zack and Miri Make a Porno” directed by Kevin Smith, features a hilarious scene involving a game of “penis hockey”. The scene has become a fan-favorite and is often cited as one of the most memorable moments of the movie.
The game of “penis hockey” is exactly what it sounds like – a game where two men use their penises to hit a small ball back and forth, with the goal of getting it into the opposing player’s cup. While it may sound crude and vulgar, the scene is executed with humor and a lighthearted tone.
The inspiration behind the scene
- The idea for the scene was inspired by Kevin Smith’s own experiences playing “penis hockey” with his friends as a teenager.
- The concept was later pitched to the cast, who were hesitant at first but eventually warmed up to the idea.
The making of the scene
The scene required extensive planning and choreography to ensure the safety of the actors and crew. The actors involved in the scene had to undergo extensive rehearsals and wear protective cups to avoid any accidents.
The scene was shot over the course of a full day, with multiple takes and angles to capture the perfect shot. Despite the challenging nature of the scene, the cast and crew were able to maintain a fun and lighthearted atmosphere on set.
The reaction to the scene
- The scene has become one of the most talked-about moments of the film, and is often cited as a standout moment by fans.
- While some viewers may find the scene crass or offensive, many appreciate the humor and lightheartedness of the moment.
- The scene has also sparked conversation about the role of raunchy humor in comedy films, and whether it is necessary or harmful to the genre.
One of the hockey players in the film is played by an actual former NHL player
It’s not uncommon for sports movies to feature actors with little athletic experience trying their best to portray professional athletes. However, in the case of the movie we’re discussing, one of the hockey players is portrayed by a former NHL player. Sean Pronger, a former player for the Anaheim Ducks, Columbus Blue Jackets, and several other NHL teams, is featured in the film as one of the teammates on the “old-timers” squad.
Pronger’s experience and skill on the ice lend a level of authenticity to his performance, and he was able to help the other actors improve their hockey skills during filming. In fact, some of the scenes featuring Pronger had to be toned down in order to match the skill level of the other actors.
Pronger’s role in the film
- Pronger played the role of the “enforcer” on the old-timers team, a tough player who was known for his physicality and ability to intimidate opponents.
- Pronger’s character is the one who suggests playing the game of “penis hockey” as a way to motivate the team and raise morale.
- While Pronger’s character may come across as gruff and intimidating, he’s ultimately a team player who helps bring the squad together and leads them to victory.
Other former players in films
While having former players portray characters in sports movies isn’t a new concept, it’s always interesting to see how their experience and expertise can enhance the authenticity of the film. Several other former NHL players have appeared in movies over the years, including Cam Neely in “Dumb and Dumber” and Luc Robitaille in “The Mighty Ducks” trilogy.
Notably, former NFL players have also made appearances in films, such as Terry Crews in “The Longest Yard” and Jim Brown in “The Dirty Dozen”. These athletes bring a unique perspective to the film and help to make the sports scenes more realistic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the hockey players in “This Is 40”?
The hockey players in “This Is 40” are Graham Parker, Ian Kinsler, Ryan Parker, and Joe Nunez.
Did any of the actors in the movie have experience playing hockey?
Yes, Paul Rudd, who played Pete, had some experience playing hockey. In fact, he played in a celebrity hockey game in New York City in 201
What role did Graham Parker, one of the hockey players, play in the movie?
Graham Parker played the role of “Coach Parker”, the coach of the hockey team that Pete’s character coached.
Were any of the hockey scenes in the movie based on real hockey games?
No, all of the hockey scenes in the movie were scripted and filmed specifically for the movie.
How did the actors prepare for the hockey scenes?
The actors who played hockey players in the movie underwent some training and practice with a professional hockey coach to learn the basics of skating and handling the puck.
Was any NHL player involved in the making of the movie?
Yes, one of the hockey players in the movie was played by an actual former NHL player, Ian Laperriere. He played the role of “Officer Drake”, a police officer who also played on the hockey team.