Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov are on opposite ends of the spectrum in more ways than one. Hollander, the golden child, flourishes in the golden rule-style, family-like climate. This encouragement allowed him to grow his prodigious talent from a young age. His mother manages his career, securing lucrative brand deals and commercial shoots that showcase his athletic prowess. Rozanov’s fictional character is made to contend with the mythology and brutal realities of the Soviet system. His obsessive pursuit of greatness can be traced to his father’s cruel insistence that he must win, no matter the price.
Hollander’s ascendance to prominence is a tribute to his family’s commitment. His parents have fostered his natural abilities, ensuring he receives the opportunities necessary to excel in a sport where competition is fierce. As he navigates the world of professional ice hockey, his mother plays an instrumental role, not only as his parent but as his manager. Of course, she selectively signs him to brand deals that serve to promote his budding image and myriad talents. These new opportunities launch him deeper into the public eye.
The story of Rozanov’s journey is one of suffering and self-denial. Raised in a system that too often values conformity over individuality, he’s overcome even more staggering odds. With his mother absent from his life, Rozanov’s father serves as both a coach and taskmaster, demanding excellence in every aspect of the young athlete’s career. This relentless pressure has tempered Rozanov like steel into an immense talent on the ice, but it left an emotional chasm in its wake.
Further complicating Rozanov’s life is his brother, whose life appears sunk in a quagmire of boredom and spite. His younger, disabled brother relies on him to be the family’s breadwinner. Simultaneously, he wrestles with his discomfort over Rozanov’s sexuality as a gay man himself. This family dynamic places further burdens on Rozanov. This doubles the burden of lofty expectations his father and society have long since imposed on him.
Though both Hollander and Rozanov are literal stars on the ice, their journeys intersect in surprising fashion. Their serendipitous meeting gives way to a passionate and clandestine affair. This dynamic plays out in ritzy hotel suites, penthouses and homes hidden behind upscale gated communities and architect-crafted cabins. Hollander’s quest for intimacy opens with Rozanov. Rozanov not only introduces him to this exciting new world but goes on to be both a patient and capable instructor. Though their unique backgrounds and battles separate them, their new friendship goes beyond each of their unique pressures.
As their relationship grows through the years, Hollander proves to be a fast learner and becomes attuned to the dynamic of their relationship. He takes comfort in Rozanov’s company in the storm, as their high-profile careers take off. While the lack of transparency about their personal relationship makes it more exciting, the dangers are much more real. Instead, they express their feelings with deftness. They understand that the public and their fellow members of the ice hockey establishment might respond with fierce backlash.
The contrast of their experience makes this story about love and ambition and finding yourself one of the best films of the year. On the one hand, Hollander’s life seems about as lucky and privileged as it gets, the kind of life most future professional athletes only aspire to live. In contrast, Rozanov’s life is a testament to the realities that await those who escape more nurturing worlds. Their continuing partnership is a testament to the enduring force of human relationships. Even under the most severe conditions, these connections are able to thrive.