Well Go USA Entertainment has released the first trailer for Youngblood, a contemporary reimagining of the 1986 hockey drama, offering audiences an early look at the sports film ahead of its theatrical release on March 6, 2026.
Directed by Academy Award–nominated filmmaker Hubert Davis, the new Youngblood stars Ashton James as Dean Youngblood, a gifted but headstrong hockey prodigy navigating the physical and emotional demands of elite competition. Blair Underwood co-stars as Blane Youngblood, Dean’s father, whose rigid expectations and emphasis on discipline shape his son’s approach to the game—and to life.
Unlike the original film, which starred Rob Lowe and Patrick Swayze, Davis’ version reframes the familiar sports narrative through a modern lens, focusing on masculinity, identity, and accountability within competitive athletics. The film maintains the spirit of the original while intentionally challenging some of the genre’s longstanding tropes.
Set primarily in Canada, the story follows Dean as he leaves Detroit to pursue his professional dreams with the Hamilton Mustangs. Though his natural talent earns him early attention, his ego quickly creates tension with teammates and rivals. As he encounters destructive behavior both on and off the ice, Dean is forced to confront what kind of player—and person—he wants to become.
The film also stars Alexandra McDonald, Shawn Doyle, Henri Picard, Donald MacLean Jr., Olunike Adeliyi, Emidio Lopes, Tamara Podemski, Keris Hope Hill, Joris Jarsky, Dylan Hawco, and Allan Hawco.
James underwent nearly two years of intensive hockey training to prepare for the role, a commitment that is evident in the film’s dynamic and grounded on-ice sequences. Davis places strong emphasis on authenticity, ensuring the hockey action resonates with seasoned fans while remaining accessible to wider audiences. At the same time, the film prioritizes character development, grounding its sports spectacle in emotional stakes.
The screenplay was co-written by Josh Epstein, Kyle Rideout, Seneca Aaron, and the late Charles Officer, a filmmaker and former professional hockey player who was originally attached as both writer and director before his passing in 2023. The project ultimately became a continuation of Officer’s creative vision, with Davis stepping in to guide the film to completion while honoring his legacy.
Youngblood made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2025, where it was met with strong audience response, particularly from the festival’s hockey-loving community.
Following its festival debut, Youngblood will open theatrically across North America on March 6, 2026, distributed by Well Go USA Entertainment in the United States and Photon Films and Media in Canada.