Smudge the Blades Review: Cody Lightning's Heartfelt Hockey Drama

Smudge the Blades (2026), directed by Cody Lightning. Image courtesy of the film's publicity team.

Cody Lightning's second feature follows a Zamboni driver with a big-league past nobody can confirm, who takes over an Indigenous hockey team just kicked out of its league. Lightning balances comedy and drama with an easy sense of pacing, gets heartfelt performances from actors who can really skate, and shoots live hockey locations beautifully. Best of all, the characters never wink at the camera or explain themselves to the audience. Some of Willie's past stays unanswered, but the heart of the film is on the ice. Moving, entertaining, and a confident step for Lightning. Full review at release in 2027.