The Don Cherry biopic, most notably the two-part CBC miniseries, isn’t just a celebration of a controversial figure; it’s a revealing exploration of Canadian identity, the evolving nature of hockey, and the complex relationship between tradition and progress. It showcases how Cherry, with his unwavering patriotism and often unfiltered opinions, became a lightning rod, reflecting both the fervent admiration and growing discomfort surrounding his brand of hockey commentary.
Decoding Don Cherry: The Biopic’s Central Message
The core question at the heart of any Don Cherry biopic isn’t simply about recounting his life; it’s about understanding why he resonated so deeply with a particular segment of Canadian society, and conversely, why he became increasingly divisive. The answer lies in Cherry’s unwavering championing of “old-time hockey,” a style emphasizing grit, physicality, and Canadian pride. He represented a perceived simpler time, where hockey was a working-class sport and Canadians reigned supreme on the ice. The biopic, however, often contrasts this romanticized vision with the realities of a changing NHL, increasingly influenced by international players and a more globalized approach to the game.
Furthermore, the biopic delves into the complexities of Cherry’s character, showcasing both his undeniable charisma and his often-insensitive remarks. It presents a nuanced portrayal, avoiding simplistic demonization or uncritical hagiography. By doing so, it forces viewers to confront their own biases and preconceived notions about Cherry, and by extension, about what it means to be Canadian. The biopic doesn’t offer easy answers; instead, it serves as a mirror reflecting the ongoing debates within Canadian society about identity, inclusion, and the future of hockey.
FAQs: Deep Diving into the Don Cherry Biopic
To further explore the nuances of the Don Cherry biopic and its cultural impact, let’s address some frequently asked questions:
Who Played Don Cherry in the Biopic?
H3 “Keep Your Head Up, Kid: The Don Cherry Story” and “The Wrath of Grapes: The Don Cherry Story II” both starred Jared Keeso as Don Cherry. Keeso’s performance was widely praised for capturing Cherry’s mannerisms, voice, and overall persona.
What Time Periods Do the Biopics Cover?
H3 The first biopic, “Keep Your Head Up, Kid,” primarily focuses on Cherry’s playing career and early years as a coach, culminating in his firing from the Boston Bruins. The second biopic, “The Wrath of Grapes,” covers his career as a commentator on Hockey Night in Canada, highlighting his rise to fame and the controversies that often surrounded him.
What Controversies Did the Biopic Highlight?
H3 The biopics touched upon several controversies, including:
- His outspoken criticism of European players: The series addresses accusations of prejudice and cultural insensitivity.
- His support for fighting in hockey: The biopics explore his belief that fighting is an integral part of the game and his resistance to calls for its elimination.
- His political views: The series briefly touches on his conservative political leanings and his support for certain political figures.
- His eventual firing from Hockey Night in Canada: The controversial “poppy” rant, which led to his termination, is addressed in detail, showcasing the context and the public reaction.
Was Don Cherry Involved in the Production of the Biopic?
H3 While not directly involved in the creative process, Don Cherry publicly endorsed Jared Keeso’s portrayal and praised the overall accuracy of the biopics. He did, however, have opportunities to review the scripts and offer feedback, albeit limited.
Did the Biopic Accurately Represent Cherry’s Coaching Style?
H3 The biopics generally portray Cherry as a demanding and fiery coach, known for his tough love approach and his emphasis on hard work and discipline. While the depiction may have been somewhat dramatized for entertainment purposes, it aligns with accounts from former players who played under him. He was a coach known for being passionate, sometimes volatile, and fiercely loyal to his players.
What Was the Critical Reception to the Don Cherry Biopics?
H3 The biopics received generally positive reviews, with critics praising Jared Keeso’s performance, the engaging storytelling, and the nuanced portrayal of a complex figure. Some criticism focused on potential biases or a tendency to romanticize certain aspects of Cherry’s career. The biopics were also significant ratings successes for CBC.
Did the Biopic Address Criticisms of Cherry’s On-Air Persona?
H3 Yes, the biopic doesn’t shy away from showcasing the criticisms leveled against Cherry. It highlights his tendency to make sweeping generalizations, his occasional misstatements, and his perceived insensitivity to certain groups. However, it also attempts to provide context for his remarks, often presenting them within the framework of his passionate defense of “old-time hockey.”
How Did the Biopic Portray Ron MacLean’s Role in the Don Cherry Partnership?
H3 Ron MacLean is depicted as a key figure in Cherry’s career, acting as a foil to Cherry’s outspoken personality and often providing a moderating influence. The biopic explores the dynamic between the two men, highlighting their long-standing friendship and their professional partnership. MacLean’s increasingly strained relationship with Cherry, leading up to the eventual firing, is also portrayed.
What Impact Did the Biopic Have on Don Cherry’s Legacy?
H3 The biopics arguably re-ignited the debate surrounding Don Cherry’s legacy. While they didn’t necessarily change anyone’s pre-existing opinions about him, they provided a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of his life and career. They also served as a reminder of his significant cultural impact, both positive and negative. The exposure also led to renewed discussions about what is acceptable commentary in sports and society.
Were There Any Fictionalized Elements in the Biopic?
H3 As with any biographical film, some artistic license was taken to enhance the storytelling. While the core events and major characters were based on real people and situations, certain details and dialogue were likely fictionalized for dramatic effect. This is common practice in biographical filmmaking and doesn’t necessarily detract from the overall accuracy of the portrayal.
What Makes the Don Cherry Biopic Relevant Today?
H3 The Don Cherry biopic remains relevant because it explores themes that are still highly pertinent today: the evolution of Canadian identity, the role of tradition in a rapidly changing world, the complexities of free speech, and the ongoing debate surrounding diversity and inclusion. Cherry’s story serves as a microcosm of these broader societal issues, prompting viewers to reflect on their own values and beliefs.
Where Can I Watch the Don Cherry Biopics?
H3 “Keep Your Head Up, Kid: The Don Cherry Story” and “The Wrath of Grapes: The Don Cherry Story II” are available on various streaming platforms and for purchase on DVD. Availability may vary depending on your region. Checking CBC Gem or popular streaming services is recommended.
The Enduring Appeal (and Controversy) of Cherry
The Don Cherry biopic, in its various iterations, ultimately forces us to confront a uncomfortable truth: that Canadian identity is not monolithic. Cherry, for all his flaws, tapped into a deep-seated sense of patriotism and a longing for a perceived simpler time. However, his views also became increasingly out of step with a more diverse and inclusive Canada.
The film doesn’t definitively declare Cherry a hero or a villain. Instead, it presents him as a complex and contradictory figure, a product of his time and a reflection of the ongoing tensions within Canadian society. And it’s in that very ambiguity that the biopic’s enduring power lies. It invites us to engage in a critical dialogue about who we are as Canadians, and what kind of future we want to build, on and off the ice. It’s a reminder that history, even recent history, is rarely black and white, and that understanding the past is crucial to navigating the complexities of the present. Ultimately, the value of a Don Cherry biopic hinges on its ability to foster these crucial conversations, rather than simply glorify or condemn.