Dexter Fletcher’s biographical comedy Eddie the Eagle tells the true story of Eddie Edwards (Taron Egerton), the hard working British ski jumper who won the world over at the 1988 Winter Olympics with his grand spirit and underdog story. The film chronicles his uphill battle to become an Olympian and eventual pairing with drunken coach and former ski jumping Olympian Bronson Peary (Hugh Jackman).
While the real Eddie Edwards won the world over in Canada, Eddie the Eagle initially wowed fans at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, garnering praise for being such a crowd-pleasing picture. When I saw the trailer and Kingsman actor Taron Egerton as the lead, I knew it would be a must-see for me. Everything about this movie screamed inspirational sports story that was not only driven by determination, but also one that looked rather funny. It was a nice change of pace from the heavy drama and intense action of other underdog stories and guess what folks, those who saw it at Sundance weren’t wrong.
Eddie the Eagle is funny, sad, entertaining and inspirational. It’s the kind of film that could potentially leave you both smiling and crying at the end, depending on how thick your emotional shell is. The chemistry between the leads was strong and the supporting roles really helped enhance Eddie’s struggle to prove his worth to the world, himself and his parents. His mother was supportive, his father not so much. Whatever obstacle came his way, Eddie didn’t give up and it’s the type of story that offers hope to those who are constantly pushed down for striving to achieve seemingly unobtainable dreams.
While a majority of the film’s story plays out in typical underdog fashion, if you don’t know how the actual events unfolded, you’ll be a little surprised what happens when the final 20 minutes comes around. Without spoiling it, it’s both conventional and a little unconventional. It’s more Rocky than Rocky II in that regard. Dexter Fletcher has improved drastically with his third feature film and this one, should people actually go out and see it, is bound to make people leave theaters full of happiness, something we could use more of in the world.
I absolutely loved Eddie the Eagle. Sure it’s got some hiccups and follows some traditional storytelling patterns, but it’s so lighthearted and fun that you’ll easily get caught up in the positive and determined nature that Eddie, via Taron, exudes from the screen. If you’re looking for something easy to watch, especially with the entire family, make it this gem, you won’t regret it.
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