How big were you willing to dream when growing up? And what were you willing to give up in order to realise those dreams? Michael “Eddie” Edwards (Taron Egerton (Kingsmen)) has dreamt of competing during the Olympics since he was a kid. Although his parents are there for him, they don’t support him in chasing his dream, he keeps trying to do everything in order to compete. He doesn’t seem to have much talent, but by being motivated he hopes to make it. When he finds out that it’s fairly easy to compete as a ski jumper (as England hasn’t competed in the event for decades), he sees an opportunity. He decides to travel to Germany to practise and qualify. There he meets Bronson Peary (Hugh Jackman), who once was a champion, but who has left the past behind him and doesn’t want to stand out. Eddie manages to convince him to give some tips.
This might seem like a bizarre story, but it has been based on real events. But in this case that’s about it. According to the real “Eddie”only 5% is true and the rest is made up. But despite that this is not a reason not to watch it. You shouldn’t learn about history watching movies. Eddie the Eagle has been made to entertain its viewers and succeeds in doing so.
This is not only because the wonderful performance by Egerton, but also his love-hate relationship with Jackman’s character is fun to watch. The underdog story could feel very cliché, but this isn’t the case here. You really care about what happens to Eddie and the situations he ends up in. Often this is also don’t with a lot of humour and the end result is a movie which is a joy to watch. This is a feel-good film comparable to Chef and Intouchables, so I highly recommend it.
I liked this film. It is such a fun and feel-good film as you root for Eddie as I pumped my fist and went “Yes” towards the end.