Based on a true story, this film tells the story of Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards’s journey from childhood as he chases his dream of someday representing his home country of Britain in the Olympics. When Eddie’s dreams seemly are coming to an end he looks to defy his naysayers by becoming the first Olympic Ski Jumper to represent Britain in the modern Olympic era.
Taron Egerton (Kingsman: Secret Service) does a marvelous job playing Eddie. He portrays the good natured soul of this un-athletic and socially awkward yet endearing hero. As a result, he not only wins the hearts of the people around him, but of audiences as well. Coupled with the hard charismatic and athletic contrast of Hugh Jackman, who plays an ex-ski jump champion Bronson Peary, the two shine together in their contrast but find an unexpected friendship that provides opportunity for one and redemption for the other.
Through the course of the film, it is hard to not be inspired by someone who is whole-heartedly chancing his dream. As such, I would best described Eddie The Eagle as the “feel good movie of the year.” A clichéd and premature description this early in 2016, but appropriate nonetheless. Take the family to this delightful film.
4 out of 5 stars
