{"id":15698,"date":"2026-09-07T06:05:47","date_gmt":"2026-09-07T13:05:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/?p=15698"},"modified":"2026-09-07T16:28:30","modified_gmt":"2026-09-07T23:28:30","slug":"before-the-ice-melts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/2026\/before-the-ice-melts\/","title":{"rendered":"Before the Ice Melts * An Inspiring Film That Combines Hockey, Determination And Family"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft  wp-image-15699\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BeforeTheIceMelts_2000x2818.jpg?resize=122%2C172&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"122\" height=\"172\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BeforeTheIceMelts_2000x2818.jpg?resize=213%2C300&amp;ssl=1 213w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BeforeTheIceMelts_2000x2818.jpg?resize=727%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 727w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BeforeTheIceMelts_2000x2818.jpg?resize=768%2C1082&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BeforeTheIceMelts_2000x2818.jpg?w=1065&amp;ssl=1 1065w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 122px) 100vw, 122px\" \/>A talented female hockey player anxiously waits to see if she\u2019ll be drafted and live her dream of playing professionally. As the hour of the draft approaches while she works at the local ice rink, she\u2019ll learn that anything is possible with hard work, support from family and friends, encouragement from NHL Hall of Famers like Luc Robitaille and most importantly, believing in yourself.<\/p>\n<p>KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Adrianna R. comments, \u201cI really enjoyed the icy film, <em>Before the Ice Melts! <\/em>It is an inspiring and emotional film that combines hockey, determination and family to tell a story about chasing your dreams even when the odds are against you.\u201d \u00a0Bailey G. adds, \u201cIf you like sports movies with heart, you&#8217;ll really enjoy Before the Ice Melts. The cast is really terrific. Molly Peyton White is perfect as Nora.\u201d Nora U. adds, \u201cThe film\u2019s message is about having faith, perseverance and never giving up on what you love. It\u2019s a reminder that when one door closes, another will open.\u201d Brooklyn S. adds, \u201c<em>Before the Ice Melts<\/em> has a beautiful message, stunning cinematography, and excellent attention to detail that makes the film stand out not only visually, but in your heart.\u201d Ashish S. wraps it up with, \u201c<em>Before The Ice Melts<\/em> is an extremely entertaining film that combines comedy with a message of hope and perseverance. I especially love the actors\u2019 performances and the overarching plot that revolves around anticipation.\u201d See their full reviews below.<\/p>\n<p>Before the Ice Melts<br \/>\nBy Adrianna R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/FtqVf15Aatk?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-15703 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.i.jpg?resize=251%2C141&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"251\" height=\"141\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.i.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.i.jpg?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 251px) 100vw, 251px\" \/>I really enjoyed the icy film, <em>Before the Ice Melts! <\/em>It is an inspiring and emotional film that combines hockey, determination and family to tell a story about chasing your dreams even when the odds are against you.<\/p>\n<p>The story follows Nora (Molly Peyton), a teenage girl who has always dreamed of becoming a professional hockey player and getting drafted. She is passionate about the sport and refuses to give up on her goal, even when she faces challenges along the way. Her journey shows how much dedication and hard work it takes to pursue something you truly love. The film also features hockey legends Luc Robitaille, Marty McSorely and Joseph Nieuwenyk, who add an authentic feeling to the hockey world and makes the story even more exciting.<\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft  wp-image-15702\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.j.jpg?resize=251%2C132&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"251\" height=\"132\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.j.jpg?resize=300%2C158&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.j.jpg?resize=768%2C405&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.j.jpg?w=853&amp;ssl=1 853w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 251px) 100vw, 251px\" \/>This is a great short film for anyone who has ever had a dream they were determined to achieve. One of my favorite things about the film is its message! The film&#8217;s takeaway is that you should never give up on a dream just because it seems impossible. I really like how the film displays that having talent is important, but determination, confidence and believing in yourself can be just as powerful. The hockey scenes are especially fun to watch because they give the film energy and made me feel like I was right there on the ice with Nora. I also like that the story focuses on a girl trying to make it into a sport that&#8217;s very competitive. Nora&#8217;s dream doesn&#8217;t come easily, which makes her journey more meaningful. Instead of giving up when things get difficult, she keeps pushing forward. The film&#8217;s title stands out to me because it creates a sense of urgency, as if she has to take her chance before the opportunity disappears &#8211; or the ice melts.<\/p>\n<p>The film\u2019s message is about following your dreams, working hard, believing in yourself and never giving up. Parents should know that there are some emotional and competitive moments like bullying, but nothing too concerning.<\/p>\n<p><em>Before the Ice Melts <\/em>gets 4 out of 5 stars from me and I recommended it for ages 8 to 12, plus hockey fans and families. It is available on VOD and streaming on September 8, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Before the Ice Melts<br \/>\nBy Bailey G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/XlyUtU-4GWU?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-15701 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.k.jpg?resize=254%2C134&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"254\" height=\"134\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.k.jpg?resize=300%2C158&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.k.jpg?resize=768%2C405&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.k.jpg?w=853&amp;ssl=1 853w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 254px) 100vw, 254px\" \/>Wow! I really love <em>Before the Ice Melts<\/em>! It has a great story, awesome acting, and a really good message. I like how real the characters feel, and how it kept me engaged the whole time.<\/p>\n<p><em>Before the Ice Melts<\/em> is about Nora (Molly Peyton White), a young woman who loves playing hockey and hopes to be drafted. On one of the biggest days of her life, she also struggles with the pressures of her mother (Sonia Satra), who keeps comparing her to her older sister, Carley (Nikki Leigh). With help from her best friend, Evan (Tommy Self), Nora learns to believe in herself and keep chasing her dream.<\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft  wp-image-15708\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.d.jpg?resize=250%2C141&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"141\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.d.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.d.jpg?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px\" \/>If you like sports movies with heart, you&#8217;ll really enjoy <em>Before the Ice Melts<\/em>. The cast is really terrific. Molly Peyton White is perfect as Nora. Tommy Self made me laugh at the perfect times, and I love how Nikki Leigh shows how much Carley cares about her sister. The hockey games and the draft scenes are exciting and held my attention. I like that the movie shows you have to work hard to reach your goals because success doesn&#8217;t happen overnight. I also really like how it made me feel like I was right there at the rink with Nora. The background music is perfect, especially during the big hockey moments, which makes those scenes even more exciting. And the cinematography makes the games feel fast and intense.\u00a0 My favorite part of the movie is how real everything feels to the point that I forgot I was watching a movie.<\/p>\n<p>The film\u2019s message is to never give up and always believe in yourself, even when things seem impossible. It promotes supportive friendships, dedication, and shows the importance of family and friendship. Be forewarned that there are some emotional family arguments and intense hockey games, but there is no bad language or anything inappropriate for older kids and teens.<\/p>\n<p>I give <em>Before the Ice Melts<\/em> 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases on VOD and Streaming on <em>Before the Ice Melts<\/em> on September 8, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Before the Ice Melts<br \/>\nBy Nora U., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 9<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/clLJ6cbQL5I?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-15700 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.a.jpg?resize=251%2C132&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"251\" height=\"132\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.a.jpg?resize=300%2C158&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.a.jpg?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 251px) 100vw, 251px\" \/>Before The Ice Melts<\/em> is a bit sad for most of the show because the main character, Nora (Molly Peyton), has so many challenges while pursuing her dreams. At times, risks to reach big goals are high, but this film teaches viewers to keep their eye on the prize and keep moving forward.<\/p>\n<p>This storyline follows the journey of a 25-year-old woman, named Nora, who loves hockey and really wants to get drafted to a professional team. When her time comes, she doesn\u2019t get a spot. Even though she is incredibly disappointed, she keeps playing hockey and finds a new intention for hockey.<\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft  wp-image-15704\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.h.jpg?resize=251%2C141&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"251\" height=\"141\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.h.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.h.jpg?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 251px) 100vw, 251px\" \/>Talk about lack of support\u2026Nora\u2019s mother, Carol (Sonia Satra) has a pessimistic outlook on Nora\u2019s aspirations, which sets the film up immediately with an underlying tone of defeat. Additionally, Ted (Charles Hubbel), the father of one of Nora\u2019s students, objects to his daughter, April (Summer Stein), practicing hockey skills which doubles the negative support Nora gets. While she does experience some self-doubt, Nora is strong willed and pushes forward in spite of it which is incredibly inspiring! The characters and the actors that play them make this film come to life and, fortunately, others in Nora\u2019s circle are more encouraging to her. Evan (Tommy Shelf) is the funniest and most supportive of Nora\u2019s dream. He adds humor and lightheartedness whenever Nora is feeling down or nervous, which happens frequently. Tommy always looks on the bright side, which adds more positivity to the story. Nora\u2019s sister, Carley (Nikki Leigh) encourages her to have a positive mindset and encourages her to follow her dreams. She is always on her side. My favorite scene is when Carley tells Nora to never stop her dream using a pizza box as a metaphor. It is witty and teaches a great lesson.<\/p>\n<p>The film\u2019s message is about having faith, perseverance and never giving up on what you love. It\u2019s a reminder that when one door closes, another will open.<\/p>\n<p>I give <em>Before the Ice Melts<\/em> 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12. It releases on video on demand and streaming on September 8, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Before the Ice Melts<br \/>\nBy Brooklyn S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 12<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/mAxgqfvyD4E?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft  wp-image-15700\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.a.jpg?resize=249%2C131&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"249\" height=\"131\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.a.jpg?resize=300%2C158&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.a.jpg?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 249px) 100vw, 249px\" \/>Before the Ice Melts<\/em> is an inspiring, slow-paced film for all hockey lovers. The costumes, set design, and camera work are amazing! There are so many inspiring quotes that support the message of never giving up.<\/p>\n<p><em>Before the Ice Melts<\/em> follows the talented hockey player Nora (Molly Peyton White) as she anxiously awaits the results of the hockey draft. The world is trying to tell her no, but she won&#8217;t stop pursuing her dreams. With support from her big sister and agent Molly, she holds onto hope as the draft gets closer. You\u2019ll have to watch the film to see if she accomplishes her dreams of becoming a professional hockey player.<\/p>\n<p><em><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-15706 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.f.jpg?resize=256%2C144&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"256\" height=\"144\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.f.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.f.jpg?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 256px) 100vw, 256px\" \/>Before the Ice Melts<\/em> has a beautiful message, stunning cinematography, and excellent attention to detail that makes the film stand out not only visually, but in your heart. Some things definitely stood out to me as I watched the film, one of them being the unique shots and camera work by Jeff Hamm. It feels like I&#8217;m watching a major blockbuster film. Each shot has perfect lighting and attention to detail that captures what&#8217;s happening in the scene. The set design and costumes also stand out \u2013 both work hand in hand to make the film feel real. Everything from Nora&#8217;s bedroom, to the massive hockey rink is set up realistically. One critique I have is that the film sometimes feels slow, and drags on longer than they need to. For example, there are often long periods of time just watching hockey or a long conversation.\u00a0 In the end, this made me excited to see the results of the draft. I think people who enjoy playing and watching hockey will be very inspired by this film.<\/p>\n<p>The film\u2019s message is that you should never give up and always pursue your dreams. Nora doesn&#8217;t back down from hockey even when her mom believes she should go into real estate for guaranteed money. Her actions show us that hard work pays off.<\/p>\n<p>I give <em>Before the Ice Melts <\/em>4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18 plus adults. It is available on VOD and streaming on September 8, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Before The Ice Melts<br \/>\nBy Ashish S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"embed-youtube\" style=\"text-align:center; display: block;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" class=\"youtube-player\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/0TD0GgDhK_k?version=3&#038;rel=1&#038;showsearch=0&#038;showinfo=1&#038;iv_load_policy=1&#038;fs=1&#038;hl=en-US&#038;autohide=2&#038;wmode=transparent\" allowfullscreen=\"true\" style=\"border:0;\" sandbox=\"allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox\"><\/iframe><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-15707 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.e.jpg?resize=236%2C124&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"236\" height=\"124\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.e.jpg?resize=300%2C158&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.e.jpg?resize=768%2C405&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.e.jpg?w=800&amp;ssl=1 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 236px) 100vw, 236px\" \/>Before The Ice Melts<\/em> is an extremely entertaining film that combines comedy with a message of hope and perseverance. I especially love the actors\u2019 performances and the overarching plot that revolves around anticipation.<\/p>\n<p>The storyline follows a 25-year-old woman named Nora (Molly Peyton) as she anxiously spends the day waiting to see if she will get drafted. The stakes are high, as this is her final year to qualify for junior leagues, and her life\u2019s work depends on this decision. Meanwhile, she has to deal with consistent criticism from her mother (Sonia Satra) and Ted (Charles Hubbell) who both want her to go into real estate because they don\u2019t think that hockey is a sustainable career option.<\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft  wp-image-15710\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.b.jpg?resize=247%2C130&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"247\" height=\"130\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.b.jpg?resize=300%2C158&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.b.jpg?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 247px) 100vw, 247px\" \/>Something that I find interesting about this movie is the pacing. The circumstances of the plot don\u2019t progress very much\u2013instead, the primary engine of the film is Nora\u2019s inner dialogue. She wrestles with anxiety throughout the whole film about whether or not she will be drafted. She\u2019s desperate to prove her doubters wrong, but in the process doubts herself. What is really unique is the choice to make both the viewer and Nora feel stuck in a state of powerlessness. There\u2019s nothing that she can do to impact the decision of the draft; it\u2019s all about hope and patience. My favorite part is Molly Peyton\u2019s portrayal of Nora. She really captures Nora\u2019s emotional state throughout the movie, so the audience can relate to why this is so important to Nora, which is the element that drives the entire film.<\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-15705 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.g.jpg?resize=249%2C140&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"249\" height=\"140\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.g.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/btim.g.jpg?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 249px) 100vw, 249px\" \/>The film\u2019s message revolves around the theme of perseverance \u2013 never giving up no matter how many times you have been knocked down or how many times people don\u2019t support you. It is critical and the film exemplifies that through Nora\u2019s character arc.<\/p>\n<p>I give <em>Before The Ice Melts<\/em> 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can catch the film on VOD and streaming services beginning Tuesday, September 8, 2026.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A talented female hockey player anxiously waits to see if she\u2019ll be drafted and live her dream of playing professionally. As the hour of the draft approaches while she works at the local ice rink, she\u2019ll learn that anything is possible with hard work, support from family and friends, encouragement from NHL Hall of Famers like Luc Robitaille and most importantly, believing in yourself.<\/p>\n<p>KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Adrianna R. comments, \u201cI really enjoyed the icy film, Before the Ice Melts! It is an inspiring and emotional film that combines hockey, determination and family to tell a story about chasing your dreams even when the odds are against you.\u201d  Bailey G. adds, \u201cIf you like sports movies with heart, you&#8217;ll really enjoy Before the Ice Melts. The cast is really terrific. Molly Peyton White is perfect as Nora.\u201d Nora U. adds, \u201cThe film\u2019s message is about having faith, perseverance and never giving up on what you love. It\u2019s a reminder that when one door closes, another will open.\u201d Brooklyn S. adds, \u201c<br \/>\nBefore the Ice Melts has a beautiful message, stunning cinematography, and excellent attention to detail that makes the film stand out not only visually, but in your heart.\u201d Ashish S. wraps it up with, \u201cBefore The Ice Melts is an extremely entertaining film that combines comedy with a message of hope and perseverance. I especially love the actors\u2019 performances and the overarching plot that revolves around anticipation.\u201d <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[4949,15],"tags":[10750,10749,1783,10752,10717,70,10767,10763,10497,69,10769,10757,10770,10759,10765,10760,10755,10751,10761,10500,551,1166,10764,10756,10753,10772,10771,10766,10762,10754,10758,10768],"class_list":["post-15698","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-feature-film","category-feature-film-reviews","tag-bailey-g","tag-before-the-ice-melts","tag-by-kids-for-kids","tag-charles-hubbell","tag-cinema-review","tag-courage","tag-ending-explained","tag-film-analysis","tag-film-review","tag-friendship","tag-girls-sports","tag-hamid-torabpour","tag-hockey","tag-hockey-movie","tag-honest-review","tag-indie-film","tag-luc-robitaille","tag-molly-peyton","tag-movie-breakdown","tag-movie-critique","tag-movie-review","tag-movie-reviews","tag-must-watch-movie","tag-nicholas-hagen","tag-nikki-leigh","tag-patience","tag-perserverance","tag-plot-breakdown","tag-reaction-video","tag-sonia-satra","tag-sports-drama","tag-viral-movie-review"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/paS5I2-45c","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15698","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=15698"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15698\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":15712,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/15698\/revisions\/15712"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=15698"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=15698"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.kidsfirst.org\/kidsfirstnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=15698"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}