Reflecting on the Flyers’ Historic 1976 Win Against the Soviet Red Army: A Look Back at “Cold War in Philly”
Documentary Revives Iconic 1976 Hockey Clash
A new documentary set to premiere this spring will revisit one of the most significant nights in hockey history—the January 11, 1976, game between the Philadelphia Flyers and the Soviet Central Red Army. The film, titled Cold War in Philly, aims to bring this pivotal event back to Philadelphia, where it took place 50 years ago.
Directed by Philadelphia native Joe Amodei and produced by Virgil Films & Entertainment, the documentary will feature a special event with former Flyers players, known as the Broad Street Bullies for their intimidating style of play.
The Soviet Red Army team came to North America as the world’s dominant hockey force, but the Flyers upset expectations by defeating them 4–1 at the Spectrum, a game that has since become iconic in NHL lore. Through interviews with key players including Bobby Clarke, Bernie Parent, Bill Barber, Dave Schultz, Reggie Leach, Joe Watson, Gary Dornhoefer, and Ed Van Impe, along with journalists, broadcasters, and fans, the film will explore the significance of that night.
The premiere event is scheduled for May 27 at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre on Broad Street, with proceeds benefiting the Philadelphia Flyers Alumni Association. Following this, a second screening will occur at the Philadelphia Film Center, with a theatrical release planned for June. The documentary will become available digitally later in the summer or early fall.
Amodei describes the documentary as a reflection of a moment that transcended hockey, stating, “When they stepped onto the ice against the Red Army team, it became about more than just hockey. It was a clash of styles, cultures, and pride. Working with the alumni on this film is a high point in my career.”
Hockey, particularly the rivalry between the U.S. and Russia, has a rich history in film and television. Recently, Netflix premiered Miracle: The Boys Of ’80, chronicling the U.S. men’s national hockey team’s victory over the Soviets in the 1980 Winter Olympics—an event famously known as the Miracle on Ice. Previous portrayals include the 2004 film Miracle, starring Kurt Russell, and the 1981 TV movie Miracle on Ice, featuring Karl Malden as U.S. head coach Herb Brooks.
Other notable documentaries about the Soviet national team include Gabe Polsky’s 2014 film Red Army and ESPN’s 2015 Of Miracles And Men, both examining the team’s journey before and after their Olympic defeat.
Amodei notes, “In all of those… no one has ever mentioned the fact that the Flyers, four years previously in 1976, beat the same team. Being a fan and idolizing them, I wanted a living document of the guys, who are getting up in age. We just lost Bernie Parent.”
Executive producer Brian Samelson emphasized the film’s role in honoring these players, stating that it captures a remarkable moment in hockey history. Flyers Alumni President Brad Marsh praised the Broad Street Bullies, declaring them “the gold standard for what it means to be a Flyer,” suggesting that the film encapsulates the essence of the team.
This marks Amodei’s debut as a director, and Virgil Films is known for acclaimed releases such as Super Size Me, I Am Chris Farley, and Restrepo.
