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Blackhawks Fri Mar 09 2012
Hawks Score With Cinematic Salute to Hull & Mikita
Before Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, there was Stan Mikita and Bobby Hull, the iconic duo that brought the Blackhawks to life in Chicago in the 1960s and reinvigorated this hockey town when they returned as team ambassadors in 2008. They are a crucial piece of Hawks history, and after 50 years, points of civic pride.
This month, the Blackhawks and Navy Pier are celebrating their contributions with free screenings of Bobby Hull and Stan Mikita: Monuments to Excellence, an in-house documentary that chronicles the life and career of the two Hockey Hall of Famers.
Produced by Blackhawks TV, the film uses the creation of the bronze statues of Hull and Mikita, which joined Michael Jordan's at the United Center last year, as a pivot point to reflect on exactly why this pair was, and still is, so incredible.
Interviews with Mikita and Hull reveal their family backgrounds and capture the personalities that captivated Chicago sports 50 years ago. They were unstoppable and even the black-and-white footage of their games is something to behold.
"Stosh" Mikita, who played center, joined the team just after Hull in the late 1950s and was portrayed as steady, smart, and focused. Hull, "The Golden Jet," was a gregarious and passionate left-winger, and still wears the signature grin that's been immortalized in his statue.
Mikita remains Chicago's all-time leader in assists, points and games played. Hull still holds the franchise record for goals scored. But this film isn't just about great statistics. Monuments to Excellence is an emotional journey, following the highs and lows of this golden age.
The joy reflected in Mikita and Hull's faces when they speak about Chicago and their time on the ice together is contagious. Instilling a sense of Blackhawks pride and nostalgia, this film is a must see for fans young and old. Tickets are free of charge and must be reserved online. Due to overwhelming demand, four additional screenings have recently been added.
