The Surprising Hockey Players in This Is 40 Movie

If you’re a hockey fan, you might be surprised to learn that the sport played a big role in the 2012 comedy-drama film “This Is 40.” The movie, which is a sequel to “Knocked Up,” focuses on the life of a middle-aged couple, Pete and Debbie, and their struggles to balance their careers and family life.

What makes “This Is 40” unique is the inclusion of several unexpected NHL players who appear in the movie, adding a layer of authenticity to the on-screen hockey scenes. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the hockey players who appeared in “This Is 40,” as well as the behind-the-scenes process of selecting them.

But “This Is 40” isn’t just a movie for hockey fans. It’s a relatable story that explores the complexities of relationships and aging. Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or not, this film offers something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and explore the surprising world of hockey in “This Is 40.”

The Characters Who Played Hockey in This Is 40

In the 2012 comedy-drama “This Is 40”, director Judd Apatow included a surprising amount of ice hockey scenes. Not only that, but several of the characters in the film were shown playing the sport on screen. This unexpected addition to the movie’s plot delighted many viewers, especially those who are fans of the sport. One of the main characters, Pete (played by Paul Rudd), is a recreational hockey player who often takes to the ice with his friends.

Another character who plays hockey in the movie is Ronnie (played by Chris O’Dowd), a friendly co-worker of Pete’s who also enjoys the sport. The two characters can be seen bonding over their shared love of hockey throughout the film, adding an extra layer of depth to their on-screen relationship. Additionally, actors Jason Segel and Charlyne Yi both have small roles in the film as fellow hockey players.

It’s worth noting that none of the actors mentioned above are known for their hockey skills. Despite this, they all managed to convincingly portray their characters on the ice, thanks in part to the film’s talented crew of hockey consultants. This attention to detail helped make the hockey scenes in “This Is 40” some of the most memorable moments in the film.

Overall, the inclusion of ice hockey in “This Is 40” was a pleasant surprise for many fans of the sport. It added a new dimension to the film’s plot and provided an entertaining showcase for some of its talented cast members.

The Role of Pete, Played by Paul Rudd

1. Character description: Pete is a middle-aged record label owner and the husband of Debbie, played by Leslie Mann.

2. Hockey background: Despite being a music enthusiast, Pete is also an avid hockey fan who enjoys playing pick-up games with his friends.

3. The hockey scenes: Throughout the movie, we see Pete playing hockey with his friends and family, including his dad, portrayed by Albert Brooks.

4. Impact on the story: The hockey scenes add a layer of fun and humor to the movie, while also serving as a way to explore Pete’s character and his relationships with others.

Paul Rudd’s portrayal of Pete is both charming and relatable, making him a fan favorite in the movie. The inclusion of hockey in his character’s storyline adds a unique and unexpected twist to the film, which sets it apart from other romantic comedies. Keep reading to learn more about the other hockey players who appear in the movie and the behind-the-scenes details of the hockey scenes.

The Role of Barry, Played by Robert Smigel

Robert Smigel played Barry, the overzealous hockey dad who frequently gets into heated arguments with other parents and coaches. Smigel is best known for his work on Saturday Night Live and as the creator of the TV Funhouse cartoons that aired on the show. His comedic talent shines through in his portrayal of Barry, who is both hilarious and cringe-worthy at the same time.

Barry’s character is the father of two boys who play hockey, and he takes the sport very seriously. He frequently yells at his sons from the stands and berates the other players on their team. His antics make for some of the funniest scenes in the movie, and Smigel’s deadpan delivery is perfect for the role.

Smigel’s experience as a comedy writer and performer was crucial to bringing Barry’s character to life. He was able to inject the character with humor and nuance, making him more than just a one-dimensional caricature of a hockey dad.

Overall, Smigel’s portrayal of Barry adds another layer of hilarity to an already funny movie. His character’s antics on and off the ice will have you laughing out loud and cringing at the same time.

The Role of Ronnie, Played by Chris O’Dowd

Chris O’Dowd’s Ronnie is a former hockey player who is now a personal trainer. His character serves as a love interest for Pete’s wife, Debbie.

In the film, Ronnie shows off his skills during a pickup game with Pete and Barry. His competitive nature causes tension between the characters, leading to some hilarious moments.

O’Dowd’s portrayal of Ronnie adds a unique dynamic to the film’s hockey scenes. His Irish charm and wit are on full display, making him a standout character in the movie.

Overall, Ronnie’s role in the film helps to further develop the characters and their relationships, while also providing some entertaining moments on the ice.

Top NHL Players Who Appeared in This Is 40

Aside from the actors who portrayed the characters in the movie, This Is 40 also features cameo appearances from some of the biggest names in the National Hockey League (NHL). Joe Sakic, former captain of the Colorado Avalanche, makes an appearance in a hockey game scene. Ryan Kesler, former center for the Vancouver Canucks, also appears in a scene, playing a version of himself. In addition, Graham DeLaet, a professional golfer and avid hockey fan, makes a cameo appearance in the film.

The inclusion of these high-profile athletes adds to the authenticity of the hockey scenes in the film. These NHL players were able to bring a level of realism to the film that may have been lacking otherwise. It was also a treat for fans of the NHL to see their favorite players outside of the rink, showcasing their acting skills on the big screen.

Overall, the appearances of these NHL players in This Is 40 helped to elevate the film and add another layer of entertainment for both hockey fans and non-hockey fans alike.

Joe Vitale

Joe Vitale is a retired NHL center who played for the Pittsburgh Penguins during his time in the league. He appeared in This Is 40 as a member of the opposing hockey team that plays against Pete’s team. Vitale’s character engages in some friendly trash-talking with Pete during the game, adding a touch of realism to the hockey scenes.

Before his retirement in 2017, Vitale played for various teams in the NHL, including the St. Louis Blues and the Arizona Coyotes. Despite his retirement, he continues to be involved in the sport, serving as an analyst for NHL Network and working with youth hockey programs.

While Vitale’s role in This Is 40 is relatively minor, his presence as an actual former NHL player adds to the authenticity of the hockey scenes and the film as a whole.

Behind the Scenes of the Hockey Scenes in This Is 40

Improvisation: Many of the hockey scenes in This Is 40 were improvised, allowing the actors to showcase their comedic talents. Director Judd Apatow encouraged the actors to play off each other and come up with funny dialogue on the spot, which resulted in some of the movie’s most memorable moments.

Real Hockey Players: In addition to the NHL players who appeared in the film, a number of real-life amateur hockey players were cast to play in the game scenes. Apatow wanted to make sure the hockey scenes looked authentic, so he held a casting call for local hockey players and ended up casting several players who had never acted before.

Hockey Coaches: To ensure that the actors looked and played like real hockey players, Apatow brought in former NHL coach Mike Johnston to work with them. Johnston taught the actors how to skate, shoot, and pass like professionals, and also advised them on the proper equipment and attire to wear for the game scenes.

Overall, the hockey scenes in This Is 40 are a testament to the dedication and hard work of the cast and crew. From the improvisation and casting of amateur players to the coaching by former NHL coach Mike Johnston, the hockey scenes in this movie are a true representation of the sport and its culture.

The Use of a Hockey Consultant on Set

The filmmakers of This Is 40 wanted to ensure that the hockey scenes were authentic, so they brought in hockey consultant Jim Fox. Fox, a former NHL player and current color commentator for the Los Angeles Kings, helped the actors with their skating, stickhandling, and shooting skills.

Director Judd Apatow wanted the hockey scenes to be realistic, and Fox’s expertise was crucial in achieving that. With Fox’s help, the actors were able to look like they belonged on the ice, even if they weren’t actually playing in an NHL game.

Fox also provided input on the script, making sure that the dialogue and on-ice action were accurate. His contributions helped make the hockey scenes in This Is 40 some of the most authentic ever seen in a movie.

How the Filmmakers Chose the Hockey Players in This Is 40

Casting for authenticity: Director Judd Apatow wanted the hockey scenes in This Is 40 to be as realistic as possible, so he enlisted the help of real NHL players and a hockey consultant to make sure everything looked and sounded authentic.

Connections in the industry: Many of the NHL players who appeared in This Is 40 had connections to the film industry. For example, Ian Laperriere, who played himself in the movie, had previously appeared in the film Goon.

A mix of personalities: Apatow and his team wanted to cast players who had distinct personalities that would translate well to the big screen. They were looking for players who could act, but who also had a natural presence and charisma.

The Importance of Authenticity in the Casting Process

Column 1	Column 2	Column 3
Authenticity	Casting	Diversity
Casting is an essential part of filmmaking and involves selecting actors for the roles in a production.	However, casting can also be a problematic area for the film industry due to a lack of authenticity.	This is where the importance of promoting diversity in the casting process comes in.
Authenticity in casting refers to the importance of casting actors who are the right fit for the role, including race, gender, and cultural background.	This is not only important for the film itself but also for the audience who watch it.	It is important to ensure that actors are cast in roles that are appropriate for their cultural background and gender identity, to promote a sense of diversity and inclusivity in the industry.
Authentic casting can also help to break down barriers and promote acceptance and understanding of different cultures and identities.	It is important for filmmakers to consider the authenticity of the casting process to ensure that they are promoting an accurate and respectful representation of different cultures and backgrounds in their productions.	The film industry has a responsibility to promote diversity and authenticity in casting to ensure that everyone is represented fairly and accurately.

In conclusion, promoting authenticity and diversity in the casting process is crucial for the film industry. By casting actors who are the right fit for the role, including race, gender, and cultural background, we can create a more inclusive and representative industry. It is important for filmmakers to consider the authenticity of the casting process to ensure that they are promoting an accurate and respectful representation of different cultures and backgrounds in their productions. The film industry has the power to break down barriers and promote acceptance and understanding of different cultures and identities through authentic and diverse casting choices.

The Impact of Hockey in This Is 40 and Its Cultural Relevance

Hockey is one of the most beloved sports in North America, and its cultural relevance extends far beyond the rink. This is evident in the 2012 film, This Is 40, directed by Judd Apatow. The film follows the life of a couple, Pete and Debbie, as they navigate the challenges of marriage and parenthood. One of the recurring themes in the film is the impact of hockey on the family dynamic.

Paul Rudd plays Pete, a die-hard hockey fan who passes his love of the sport onto his daughters. The family attends games together, and even Debbie, played by Leslie Mann, eventually becomes a fan. The portrayal of hockey in the film highlights its ability to bring people together and create a sense of community.

While hockey is often associated with violence, This Is 40 shows a different side of the sport. Hockey can be a source of inspiration and motivation. It teaches players the value of hard work and determination, and the importance of teamwork. These values are reflected in the film as Pete and Debbie work together to overcome their challenges.

The use of hockey in This Is 40 also speaks to its cultural significance. Hockey is a sport that is deeply rooted in Canadian and American history and identity. It has a unique ability to unite people from different backgrounds and create a shared sense of pride. This is exemplified in the film as the family bonds over their love of the sport, and as they cheer on their local team.

This Is 40 is just one example of the many ways in which hockey has impacted popular culture. From films and TV shows to music and literature, hockey has become a part of the cultural fabric of North America. Its influence extends beyond the rink and has helped to shape the identities of countless individuals and communities.

As the popularity of hockey continues to grow, its impact on culture will only become more pronounced. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply appreciate the values it represents, there’s no denying the important role that hockey plays in our society.

The Portrayal of Hockey as a Universal Language

Ice hockey is a sport that transcends cultural barriers, and it has been portrayed as such in numerous films and TV shows. In movies like Mystery, Alaska and Youngblood, the hockey rink serves as a space where characters from different backgrounds come together to pursue a common goal. This is also evident in the hit TV show Letterkenny, where hockey is a key aspect of the community and brings together individuals who may not otherwise interact.

The portrayal of hockey as a universal language is not limited to North America. In the 2008 French film Go Fast Connection, two French police officers bond over their shared love of hockey, despite one being from Marseille and the other from Paris. Similarly, in the 2018 Indian film Gold, the sport of field hockey serves as a symbol of national pride and unity.

One of the reasons hockey has this universal appeal is its fast-paced, physical nature. The sport demands a high level of skill, teamwork, and dedication, making it a challenge for anyone who takes it up. Furthermore, hockey is a sport that can be played indoors or outdoors, on ice or on a field, making it accessible to people in a variety of climates and regions.

The Representation of Hockey as a Family Activity

1. Hockey has been a beloved sport for many families across the world. It provides an excellent opportunity for families to bond and spend time together. Skating, passing, and shooting the puck all require skill and teamwork, which makes it an excellent way for families to work together and support one another.

2. For families with young children, hockey can also provide an opportunity to teach important life skills. Discipline, perseverance, and teamwork are all valuable lessons that can be learned on the ice. By learning these skills through a sport they love, children are more likely to remember them and apply them in other areas of their lives.

3. Another benefit of hockey as a family activity is the opportunity to build memories together. From early morning practices to weekend tournaments, families create countless memories on and off the ice. These memories can last a lifetime and help bring families closer together.

4. Moreover, hockey as a family activity can also help families stay active and healthy. With the rising concerns of obesity and sedentary lifestyles, it’s essential for families to find activities that keep them moving. Hockey is an excellent way to get the heart pumping and stay in shape.

Overall, hockey is a fantastic family activity that provides numerous benefits. It’s an opportunity for families to bond, learn important life skills, build memories, and stay active. With the added bonus of exciting gameplay and friendly competition, hockey is a sport that families can enjoy for years to come.

Benefits of Hockey as a Family Activity	Examples	Skills Learned
Bonding	Working together to score a goal	Teamwork
Life Lessons	Learning discipline through practice	Perseverance
Memories	Traveling to tournaments together	Nostalgia
Physical Activity	Skating up and down the rink	Cardiovascular endurance
Fun	Scoring the game-winning goal	Hand-eye coordination
Competition	Playing against rival teams	Sportsmanship

The Reflection of Hockey’s Place in American Culture

• Ice hockey has been an integral part of American culture for over a century, with the sport’s roots tracing back to the early 1900s.
• NHL, the premier professional hockey league in North America, has grown in popularity over the years, with teams in major American cities such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
• Hockey has also had a significant impact on popular culture, with movies such as “Miracle” and “Slap Shot” showcasing the sport’s excitement and intensity.
• Stanley Cup, the oldest professional sports trophy in North America, has become a symbol of excellence and is highly coveted by hockey players and fans alike.

However, hockey’s place in American culture extends beyond the sport itself. It reflects the values and ideals of the country, including determination, resilience, and teamwork. Hockey players are known for their toughness and willingness to play through injuries, mirroring the American spirit of overcoming adversity.

The NHL has also played a significant role in American history, with teams such as the Boston Bruins and Detroit Red Wings playing during World War II and players such as Herb Brooks and Ken Morrow representing the United States in the Olympics.

Overall, hockey’s place in American culture is firmly established and continues to grow in popularity. From the pond to the rink, from youth leagues to the pros, hockey remains a beloved and cherished part of American society.

Why This Is 40 is a Must-See for Hockey Fans

This Is 40 is a 2012 comedy film directed by Judd Apatow that explores the challenges of turning 40. While the movie covers a wide range of topics, it also features a hockey storyline that will resonate with fans of the sport.

The hockey scenes in This Is 40 are authentic and true to life, showcasing the sport’s speed, skill, and physicality. The players in the movie are portrayed as passionate and dedicated to the game, with a deep respect for their teammates and opponents.

Paul Rudd, who stars in the film, is a big hockey fan in real life and brings that love of the sport to his performance. His character, Pete, is a diehard fan of the Los Angeles Kings, and the film includes footage from a Kings game, adding to the authenticity of the hockey storyline.

Overall, This Is 40 is a must-see for hockey fans who appreciate the sport’s intensity, teamwork, and camaraderie. The movie’s depiction of hockey is spot-on, and the storyline adds depth and humor to the film’s exploration of middle-aged life.

The Accurate Portrayal of Hockey and its Culture

• Authenticity: One of the standout aspects of hockey in popular culture is how well it portrays the sport’s speed, skill, and physicality. From the skating and shooting to the hits and fights, hockey movies and TV shows accurately capture the intensity of the game.
• Teamwork: Hockey is a team sport, and this is reflected in its portrayal in popular culture. Hockey movies and TV shows often highlight the importance of teamwork, chemistry, and trust among players, both on and off the ice.
• Camaraderie: Hockey has a unique culture that emphasizes loyalty, respect, and camaraderie among players, coaches, and fans. This culture is accurately portrayed in hockey movies and TV shows, which often feature tight-knit teams and communities that rally around the sport.

Overall, the accurate portrayal of hockey and its culture in popular culture is one of the reasons why the sport has such a devoted following. Whether you’re a diehard fan or just getting into the game, hockey movies and TV shows are a great way to experience the excitement and passion of the sport.

The Inclusion of Top NHL Players in the Film

One of the most exciting aspects of “This Is 40” for hockey fans is the inclusion of NHL players. The film features cameos from some of the biggest names in hockey, including Marian Gaborik, Graham DeLaet, and Ryan Miller.

The appearance of these players adds a level of authenticity to the film’s portrayal of hockey culture. It also provides a rare opportunity for fans to see their favorite athletes in a different light, outside of their usual roles on the ice.

It’s clear that the filmmakers went to great lengths to ensure that the hockey scenes in “This Is 40” were as accurate as possible. In addition to featuring real NHL players, the film also utilizes actual game footage to create a more immersive experience for viewers.

For hockey fans, the inclusion of these top players is sure to be a highlight of the film. It’s a rare chance to see their favorite athletes in a new context and gain a deeper understanding of the sport they love.

The Unique Perspective on Hockey as a Family Activity

Ice hockey is a game that has the ability to bring families together. It’s a sport that’s known for its fast-paced action and physicality, but it’s also a game that can be enjoyed by all ages. Family is a central theme in the movie “This Is 40”, which is why it’s a must-see for any hockey-loving family.

The movie offers a unique perspective on hockey as a family activity. The scenes of the family playing hockey together on their backyard rink are heartwarming and relatable. It’s a reminder that the game can be enjoyed not just as a competitive sport but as a bonding experience with loved ones.

Parenting is also a theme that is explored in the movie. The struggles of balancing work and family life, as well as the challenges of raising teenagers, are depicted in a humorous and realistic way. The family’s shared love for hockey is a source of comfort and a way to connect with one another.

Another aspect of the movie that highlights the importance of hockey as a family activity is the sense of community that it can bring. The scenes at the youth hockey rink show the parents and players coming together to support one another. The bonds that are formed through the game extend beyond the ice and create a network of support for families.

Overall, “This Is 40” offers a refreshing and relatable perspective on hockey as a family activity. It’s a movie that will resonate with anyone who has ever laced up a pair of skates and stepped onto the ice with their loved ones. It’s a reminder that the game is about more than just winning or losing – it’s about the connections and memories that are made along the way.

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