THIS offbeat comedy is based on the incredible true story of a minor league ice hockey player who courted fame for his thuggish conduct.

Adapted from the book by Adam Frattasio and Doug Smith, this endearing film is a celebration of an underdog who found his calling by flooring his opponents.

The goon of the title refers to an enforcer, whose role is to protect his team-mates using any part of his body that can clatter the opposition at speed.

The brawler in question is dim-witted yet lovable Doug Glatt (Seann William Scott), who works as a bouncer in Massachusetts.

He feels alienated from his Jewish parents who hoped he would train to become a doctor like his gay brother Ira.

After Doug shows his displeasure with his fists when a fellow ice hockey match spectator makes a homophobic jibe, the coach of the local team is impressed and encourages him to try out as an enforcer. After just one season, Doug transfers to the Halifax Highlanders in Nova Scotia, where the coach asks him to protect an out-of-form scorer against a bullying rival.

The film is a pleasant surprise: a macho comedy awash with fisticuffs that slap shots into our affections.