H.E. Double Hockey Sticks (1999)

H.E. Double Hockey Sticks Poster

Satan, in the form of Ms. Beelzebub, sends apprentice demon Griffelkin to Earth's surface to steal the soul of a talented young hockey player named Dave, who aspires to be the youngest man to ever win the Stanley Cup.

Introduction
"H.E. Double Hockey Sticks" is a 1999 comedy movie that brings an amusing twist to the typical portrayal of Heaven and Hell. Directed by Randall Miller and generated from a teleplay by David Kukoff and Matt Roshkow, the movie initially aired as part of The Wonderful World of Disney on ABC. This household motion picture mixes the supernatural with the sports world, providing an amusing storyline for younger audiences and gentle laughs for the entire family.

Plot Summary
The story revolves around Griffin, a young and somewhat inefficient devil played by Will Friedle. Griffin has goals to climb up the ranks in Hell, which is represented as a corporate organization rather than the standard pit of fire and brimstone. To achieve his objective, he requires to secure a soul for the devil, played by Gabriel Byrne, who impresses with his efficiency. Griffin's target is Dave Heinrich (Matthew Lawrence), a high school hockey star, who imagines winning the state champion.

The offer proposed to Dave is uncomplicated: his soul in exchange for guaranteeing his team's success in the state championship. Lured by the guarantee of success and driven by the pressure to win, Dave begins to consider Griffin's deal seriously. In the middle of this, we meet an angelic figure, Gabriella (Rhea Perlman), who works as a counterbalance to Griffin's devilish impacts and efforts to steer Dave far from making an irreversible decision.

As the narrative progresses, Griffin begins to experience humankind's complexity. At first sent on an objective with a clear objective, Griffin finds himself forming a genuine relationship with Dave. This unanticipated turn of feelings leads to an issue, challenging the values of Heaven versus Hell. The young devil needs to contend not only with his duties however likewise with his growing conscience as he questions the real meaning of success and relationship.

Character Development and Themes
Griffin's goals are challenged when he starts to feel sorry for Dave's problem. While initially Griffin is represented as a naughty, self-serving imp, the film takes us through his journey towards a thoughtful being, a testimony to the film's expedition of moral development and redemption. Dave, too, progresses, finding out that true success lies not in the assurance of a win, but in the integrity with which one plays the game.

The motion picture discuss styles of temptation, morality, and the significance of exemplary choices, all bundled in an enjoyable and non-preachy manner. With Gabriella's angelic interventions and Griffin's internal fight, we see a young soul grappling with the proverbial devil and angel on his shoulders.

Comedy and Tone
"H.E. Double Hockey Sticks" profits from slapstick funny and situational humor to engage its audiences. The movie doesn't take itself too seriously, which permits viewers to delight in the antics of devils and angels involved in the everyday life of a common teenager. The tone is easy going, with comedic components derived from the contrast between celestial beings' expectations and the human realm's reality.

Reception and Impact
Upon its release, "H.E. Double Hockey Sticks" met with combined evaluations, with critics noting its charm and wit however critiquing its simple storyline. Nevertheless, the movie found a place in the hearts of its target market, connecting with children and families due to its favorable messages, perky efficiencies, and its distinct spin on the sports motion picture genre.

Conclusion
In general, "H.E. Double Hockey Sticks" acts as a wonderful escape into a world where the supernatural intersects with human aspirations and desires. It shows that even in the most unexpected scenarios, lessons can be learned, and character can be built. The 1999 Disney television movie offers a blend of humor, heart, and hockey that continues to captivate audiences looking for a light-hearted and comedic tale of great versus evil.

Top Cast

  • Will Friedle (small)
    Will Friedle
    Griffelkin
  • Matthew Lawrence (small)
    Matthew Lawrence
    Dave Heinrich
  • Gabrielle Union (small)
    Gabrielle Union
    Gabrielle
  • Shawn Pyfrom (small)
    Shawn Pyfrom
    Lewis
  • Tara Spencer-Nairn (small)
    Tara Spencer-Nairn
    Anne
  • Kim Greist (small)
    Kim Greist
    Marie Antoinette
  • Brad Nessler
    Brad Nessler
  • Kevin McNulty (small)
    Kevin McNulty
    Annapolis Angels Coach
  • Colin Murdock
    Demons Announcer
  • Tyler Labine (small)
    Tyler Labine
    Mark
  • Kett Turton (small)
    Kett Turton
    Skid