JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (WJAC) – In this week’s anniversary segment, we take a look back at the time Hollywood came to town.
We showed you the politics of the filming of the movie Slap Shot when it took place in Johnstown, now we take a look at the rumors when the movie was released.
It was March 1977 and long lines were forming in front of local theaters in the area.
A year earlier, Paul Newman and the film’s production were filming all over the city.
A special rite of inauguration of a film reel was held at the Plaza Theater.
Even some stars of Slap Shot were present to welcome moviegoers.
Some took the time to tell our team what they thought.
“It was a very fun movie. I enjoyed Paul Newman and, contrary to some reports we’ve noticed about how he might have portrayed Johnstown in a bad way, I don’t think that’s the case. It was a fun movie.
“The language is bad, it’s bad, but that’s hockey. The fighting and blood is bad, but that’s hockey.
“It’s a hockey movie, it’s a real hockey movie, but don’t worry about anything else, come see an incredibly fun movie. “
Slap Shot is considered a mild success.
According to IMDB, it grossed $28 million in 1977.