GOON

Goon is a based-on-a-true-story sports movie, and it brings nothing new to the genre-there's a setup, and a montage or two, and a climactic battle that means everything. There's a lot of bloody violence, and a hugely inappropriate amount of gay panic, mostly delivered by Goon co-screenwriter Jay Baruchel as Doug Glatt's best friend. Despite all the unoriginality, Goon is elevated by excellent performances. Seann William Scott is perhaps as relatable as he's ever been. As the love interest, Alison Pill is a charming, good-intentioned slut. And best of all is Liev Schreiber, playing an older version of Glatt who's nearing the end of his career as a hockey enforcer. (PAUL CONSTANT)