“Heated Rivalry,” the TV series based on Rachel Reid’s book that has been consistently sold out, has captured the online audience’s attention. The plot revolves around Shane Hollander (played by Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (played by Connor Storrie), two professional hockey players hiding their relationship while battling it out on the ice. Their clandestine romance unfolds against a backdrop of homophobia in the sports world and Rozanov’s conservative Russian roots.
In addition to its steamy storyline, the show’s Canadian roots have garnered significant interest. Written and directed by Jacob Tierney and produced by Crave, the series stands out for its distinctly Canadian elements, from its modest budget to casting choices and musical selections. Despite being distributed by HBO Max in the U.S. and Australia, fans are quick to point out that it is not an HBO production.
The soundtrack, reminiscent of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross’s style, features several Canadian songs that have experienced a surge in streaming numbers. Notably, tracks from artists like Feist and Wolf Parade saw a substantial increase in streams and playlist additions following their appearances in the show.
The series incorporates a range of Canadian songs in its first season, enhancing pivotal moments with tunes like Feist’s “Sealion,” Dumas’ “Une journée parfaite,” Philippe B’s “Chelsea mon amour,” Wolf Parade’s “I’ll Believe in Anything,” Night Lunch’s “Your Body,” Alfa Rococo’s “Lumière,” Feist’s “My Moon My Man,” the Souljazz Orchestra’s “Serenity,” Lou Phelps’ “Tu t’en souviens,” Richy Jay’s “En dedans,” Unessential Oils’ “Solutions to My Gloom,” the Deadly Snakes’ “Oh My Bride,” and Absolute Treat’s “Bonnie.”
The use of these Canadian tracks adds depth and emotion to the series, resonating with viewers and contributing to the overall experience of “Heated Rivalry.”
