Eddie the Eagle soars into hearts of viewers

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Fair Use: 20th Century Fox

Michael “Eddie” Edwards (Taron Egerton) and Bronson Piery (Hugh Jackman) pose after Eddie’s 70m jump at the 1988 Winter Olympics.

Ellie Nowakowski, Staff Writer

Based on a true story, Eddie the Eagle, a heartwarming and inspiring film, has viewers rooting for Eddie the second he appears on screen. The movie tells the story of Michael “Eddie” Edwards, a charming young man who follows his lifelong dream of competing in the Olympics.

The beautiful footage of snowy mountains and clear skies are set in Europe in the year leading up to the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Canada. The film follows Eddie as he trains with his ski coach, Bronson Peary, a former American Olympian. After trying many different sports and failing, Eddie finally  decides to give ski jumping a try. At the time, England did not have a team.

Actor Taron Egerton captures Eddie’s spirit, pride, and charisma. Eddie at age 10 is played by Tom Costello and age 15 by Jack Costello. They both very much set the platform for Eddie’s unwavering dignity. They show how Eddie doesn’t care if he wins or loses; he just wants a chance to prove himself. Hugh Jackman plays Peary, Eddie’s reluctant yet incredible coach who helps Eddie along the way, but is also helped by Eddie.

Watch as Michael “Eddie” Edwards goes up against all odds in a ‘world that doesn’t want to know him’.

Every scene leads to and adds anticipation for Eddie’s chance to jump at the Olympics. His pride and belief in his dream gives the viewer a look into what it would be like to know and be personally touched by Eddie. The story goes beyond just Eddie, getting into the lives of the people who supported him when no one else did. It also shows the people who were against him, which was what really drove him to never be deterred. Watch as Michael “Eddie” Edwards goes up against all odds in a “world that doesn’t want to know him,” to follow his dream of becoming an Olympian.

Eddie the Eagle is rated PG-13 for some suggestive material, partial nudity and smoking. These moments are short and do not lead the story. I would recommend this movie for all ages because the main idea of the movie is perseverance, dignity and pride. This movie will have you wondering why you’ve never heard of Eddie Edwards before.

Review: 5/5 stars