Top 9 Ice Skating Films That Capture the Magic of the Rink
From the competitive spins to the dramatic falls, ice skating has translated into some unforgettable cinematic experiences. Let's glide through the top 9 ice skating films that have left an indelible mark on both the sports and film industries.
9. The Mighty Ducks (1992)
Disney's The Mighty Ducks might focus on hockey, but its heart lies in the ice skating prowess of its young cast. The film, which became a cultural phenomenon, follows a ragtag team of kids who find strength and friendship on the rink. Led by Emilio Estevez's character, the Mighty Ducks navigate the slippery path to glory, showcasing thrilling ice skating moves in their journey. The impact of the film was so significant that it even spawned an NHL team, proving that sometimes, life does imitate art. The magic of The Mighty Ducks lies not just in the sport it portrays but in the timeless tale of overcoming adversity, making it a beloved classic that still resonates with audiences today.
Bombay poses with his original Mighty Ducks team
8. Ice Princess (2005)
Ice Princess takes a two-fold approach to the world of ice skating by combining the elegance of the sport with the rigor of science. Michelle Trachtenberg plays Casey Carlyle, a girl caught between her mother's academic expectations and her newfound love for figure skating. The film, which includes a supporting cast of Joan Cusack, Hayden Panettiere, and Kim Cattrall, may not have been a box office hit, but it stands out for its unique take on pursuing one's passion against all odds. The movie's portrayal of ice skating is both technically impressive and emotionally engaging, with sequences that inspire as much as they entertain. It's a story that reminds viewers that the true essence of sports lies in the joy it brings, regardless of the scores on the board.
Michelle Trachtenberg stands back to back with herself in Ice Princess
7. Ice Girls (2016)
The Canadian film Ice Girls explores the theme of resilience in the face of life's unexpected turns. When a promising figure skater's dreams are halted by her family's financial struggles, she learns that true talent can flourish anywhere, even in a small town. The film's heartfelt portrayal of sportsmanship and community resonates with young audiences, offering a narrative rich with hope and determination. The ice skating sequences are performed with expertise and grace, capturing the spirit of the sport and the dedication it demands. Ice Girls serves as a reminder that challenges can be transformed into opportunities, and that with the support of friends and family, nothing is insurmountable.
The cast of Ice Girls pose for a promo image
6. Go Figure (2005)
Disney Channel's Go Figure skates into the hearts of viewers with its story of an Olympic figure skating hopeful who must navigate the complexities of a competitive training academy. The film blends the youthful exuberance typical of 2000s Disney movies with a genuine respect for the art of ice skating. Katelin's journey, punctuated by a cameo from figure skating legend Kristi Yamaguchi, is one of self-discovery and perseverance. Go Figure strikes a balance between playful and passionate, delivering an underdog story that encourages viewers to embrace their dreams, no matter the obstacles. With its dynamic ice skating scenes and charming narrative, the film captures the soaring spirit of the sport and the hard work behind the glitz.
Katelin on the ice talking to Spencer in Disney Channel original movie Go Figure
5. Blades Of Glory (2007)
Blades of Glory spins a different tale on the ice, with Will Ferrell and Jon Heder leading the charge in this outrageous comedy. As two disgraced male figure skaters who team up for a shot at redemption, they bring a hilarious twist to the usually dignified world of ice skating. The film revels in the absurdity of the sport's theatrical side while respecting its athletic core. Blades of Glory is an uproarious ride that challenges traditional gender roles in figure skating and delivers a laugh-out-loud experience. Ferrell and Heder's chemistry is the glue that holds the movie's zany antics together, ensuring that every leap and twirl is as funny as it is impressive.
Will Ferrell and Jon Heder celebrate their victory in Blades of Glory
4. The Ice Follies Of 1939 (1939)
The Ice Follies of 1939 glides into cinema history as one of the earliest films to feature ice skating as its central theme. Starring silver screen icons Joan Crawford and James Stewart, the musical drama showcased the spectacle of ice skating through its story of love and ambition. The film's use of real skaters from the national touring group the Ice Follies lent an authenticity to the dazzling performances, culminating in a full-color Cinderella-inspired finale. This black and white classic may have prioritized visual splendor over narrative depth, but it remains a significant milestone that brought the elegance of ice skating to the forefront of Hollywood's golden age.
Three skaters talk in The Ice Follies of 1939
3. The Cutting Edge (1992)
The Cutting Edge carves its place in the ice skating movie genre with a blend of romance and athletic competition. The film tells the story of a former hockey player who partners with a figure skater to pursue Olympic gold, pioneering the now-familiar narrative of two worlds colliding on the ice. While the romance takes center stage, the on-ice chemistry between the leads contributes to the film's thrilling skating sequences. The Cutting Edge sparked a franchise that continued to explore the dynamics of partnerships in the high-stakes world of figure skating, proving that love can be just as competitive as the sports we play.
Kate and Doug do their final pose in Cutting Edge
2. The Ice King (2018)
The Ice King serves as a documentary tribute to the transformative figure of John Curry, who revolutionized figure skating with his artistic approach. As the first openly gay Olympian, Curry's story is one of courage, both on and off the ice. The film captures the elegance Curry brought to the sport, elevating it to an art form and challenging the norms of his time. The Ice King is a testament to the power of personal expression in athletics, and the film presents Curry's journey with the grace and gravitas it deserves. His legacy as an athlete and artist continues to inspire, making The Ice King a poignant portrayal of a man who skated against the tide and changed the sport forever.
A skater performs a difficult move in The Ice King
1. I, Tonya (2017)
I, Tonya offers a gripping look at the infamous Tonya Harding-Nancy Kerrigan scandal that rocked the world of figure skating. The film adopts a mockumentary style to narrate the controversial events from Harding's perspective, portraying her as a complex character shaped by a tumultuous life. Margot Robbie's portrayal earned her an Oscar nomination, while Allison Janney's performance as Harding's mother won her an Academy Award. The film dives deep into the underbelly of competitive skating, exposing the pressures and politics that athletes face. I, Tonya isn't just about the scandal; it's a nuanced exploration of ambition, identity, and the human spirit, set against the backdrop of one of the sport's most dramatic moments.
Margot Robbie as Tonya Harding in I, Tonya
