Rob Zombie Goes Sports, Will Direct 'Broad Street Bullies' About Notorious 1970s Philadelphia Flyers

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by Kevin Jagernauth
June 19, 2012 4:21 PM
4 Comments

Hockey movies aren't exactly the easiest sell. While the genre has spawned a hit every now and again -- "Miracle," "Mighty Ducks," "Slap Shot" -- more often than not, movies like this year's "Goon" come and go with nary a peep (though it did well in, you guessed it, Canada). And even Kevin Smith, who at one point was furiously talking up his two-movie finale "Hit Somebody," has quieted down about that one. But Rob Zombie, of all people, looks to be the next guy who will strap on the skates.

Deadline reports that the rock musician, horror helmer, and beard enthusiast is set to write and direct "Broad Street Bullies." Hockey movie? Rob Zombie? Does not compute? Well, it sorta does. The title refers to the nickname of the 1970s Philadelphia Flyers -- a handle that is still used to today -- due to their very rough style of play that reportedly had Russia's Red Army team so bruised up in an exhibition game that they refused to come out of their lockers after the first period (until they were told they wouldn't get paid). But the team wasn't just busting heads -- they also won back-to-back Stanley Cups.

The movie is described as a cross between "Rocky" and "Boogie Nights" and moreover, has the full support of the Flyers organization for authenticity points. The film will be set against the 1974 season, with financing and other details getting locked up to make this one Zombie's next effort (he's currently in post on "Lords Of Salem").

Zombie + hockey? It's inspired to be sure, and we'd definitely be interested to see his take. But if you can't wait, HBO dropped a documentary on the team, also titled "Broad Street Bullies," which you can track down. Watch the trailer below.

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More: Rob Zombie, Broad Street Bullies

4 Comments

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Arch | June 20, 2012 6:51 AMReply

Well I didn't expect that. A gritty 'Any given sunday'-like movie would be awesome though. Plus it's in the 70's which is completely Zombie friendly.
AK | June 20, 2012 2:25 AMReply

Your box-office reporting is off. Goon did over 4 million in the U.S. - an excellent figure for a specialty release.
loudrockmusic | June 19, 2012 6:41 PMReply

Goon was awesome!
BEF | June 19, 2012 5:31 PMReply

Looking forward to see what Zombie can do outside horror. Second most intriguing item today (first being The Master teaser 2 of course)