How does Jack, a chimpanzee with the IQ of a genius, end up living in the frozen North and playing hockey on a kids’ junior hockey team? It all starts with the unfortunate demise of the professor who trains and cares for him and the dean’s plans to sell Jack to a research facility. Jack’s somewhat slow-witted janitor friend puts Jack on a train bound for the El Simian reserve, but he sleeps through his stop and winds up in a small Canadian town instead. Jack quickly befriends Tara Westover, a deaf girl recently transplanted from California, and her brother Steven. Mishaps abound as Jack attempts to blend into the town, but eventually he joins Steven on the local hockey team–as its star player! Can Jack turn around the team’s dismal record? Can Steven and Tara prevent the dean from catching up with Jack and sending him to the research lab?
This is a touching story about a close-knit, functional family and its interaction with a smart, adorable chimp. While this 93-minute film does contain some fairly violent hockey scenes, it is for the most part wholesome family entertainment that celebrates such values as open-mindedness, caring, and compassion. The chimps are thoroughly entertaining, and Kevin Zegers (Steven) and Jamie Renée Smith (Tara) do a nice job with their roles. Ages 5 and up. –Tami Horiuchi
Rating: 
(out of 28 reviews)
List Price: $ 12.98
Price: $ 5.40
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November 8, 2010
#1
Review by StayClassy
Rating:
Simply put this film is a work of art. An epic tale of love, adventure, and tragedy peppered with cutting wit and humor, it is a masterpiece worthy of the immortal bard Shakespeare himself. Never have I seen such a talented thespian as Jack. His masterful acting is reminiscent of DeNiro in Raging Bull and the action scenes would make Schwarzenegger himself weep with pride. The camera work is amazing and the scene where Jack must decide the fate of the conductor’s hat is so soulful and suspenseful I literally had white knuckles from clenching my Pabst Blue Ribbon bottle waiting for the outcome. I shouted aloud, “No Jack, you mustn’t give in to the dark side of your soul!” as I punched the side of my trailer in rage and disgust (which startled Moonbeam my wolf). Then I breathed a deep sigh of relief when he chose the path of good by returning it. I must warn those of you with heart conditions, this film may be too intense for you.
Bravo Jack, you’ve captured our hearts. Bravo.
November 8, 2010
#2
Review by John Keitz
Rating:
Regardless of what you order, you get full screen, which really pisses me off. There is no excuse for only making a full screen DVD in the 21st Century!!!
November 8, 2010
#3
Review by Scott Oakes
Rating:
If you can’t laugh at this movie then you’ve got some major issues. While some people may look at it as a wonderful and touching family film, it’s just as great if you’re in the 18-24 demographic and looking for some low-brow (but highly entertaining) comedy. Correct me if I’m wrong, but a hockey-playing monkey is just about the best thing that’s ever happened to Hollywood. And let’s not forget that Jack went on to become a master skateboarder and snowboarder (in MVP 2 and MXP, respectively). This monkey is a top-notch actor, athlete, scholar, and gentleman.
November 8, 2010
#4
Review by Michelle L. Fairchild
Rating:
THIS MOVIE IS WONDERFUL FOR KIDS WHO LOVE HOCKEY. MY SON WATCHES IT OVER AND OVER AGAIN AND LAUGHS EVERY TIME.
November 8, 2010
#5
Review by jj
Rating:
this movie and it’s sequel were both very good. of course they’re predictable but they’re great.