🔒Rucker Investments makes first investment in film industry with hockey drama on mental health

Beverly-based Rucker Investments has entered the media space through an investment in a film tackling the issue of mental health among youth athletes. The firm led by Worcester Railers Owner Cliff Rucker and his wife Susan has invested in “Shattered Ice,” a fictional tale set in New England telling the story of a teenage hockey player attempting to navigate high school life after the suicide of his best friend and fellow team member, according to a Tuesday press release from Rucker Investments. “This is our first time entering the film space, but the message resonated deeply with our team,” Jennifer Barys, CFO at Rucker Investments, said in the press release. “The connection to hockey made it feel like a perfect fit for us. Partnering with a passionate writer and producer like Jake and helping bring this film to life has been incredibly meaningful. We’re so impressed by the traction it’s already gained and the numerous recognitions it has earned across the film festival circuit.” The film was produced by Needham-based Nehoiden Street Films and was written by first-time screenwriter Jake Miskin. Filmmaker Alex Ranarivelo directed the film, which stars Canadian actor Charlie Gillespie, perhaps best known for his work in the 2021 Netflix series “Julie and the Phantoms,” according to IMDB.com. “Shattered Ice” has won seven awards so far, including the Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature and The Festival Director’s Choice Award for Best Ensemble Cast at the 2025 Woods Hole Film Festival. Terms of Rucker’s investment were not disclosed. In partnership with the Railers and the Worcester-based Reliant Foundation, Rucker is hosting a screening and panel discussion at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 12 at the Worcester Palladium. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased here. Eric Casey is the managing editor at Worcester Business Journal, who primarily covers the manufacturing and real estate industries.