Cheesy feel-good films aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, especially when they’re loosely based on the life of a British Olympian famous for losing. However, Dexter Fletcher has managed to direct a film that appeals to basically everyone. If you’ve ever had a moment in life when you’ve been underestimated and felt as though the world is against you, this is a movie that is so easily relatable - you can’t help but fall in love with Eddie all over again.
Although the real Eddie Edwards has confirmed that much of the film is fiction, such as the character Bronson Peary played by Hugh Jackman, and the unsupportive nature of his father, the general plot of the story tells of Eddie’s unorthodox success. We Brits always seem to love an underdog and this is massively played upon during the movie, but any true Brit will fall for this trick and cheer the main character on from the beginning to the very end.
Although the directing of the film is quite clearly superb, it isn’t the only aspect of the film to be praised. The acting of the two main characters, Taron Egerton and Hugh Jackman was so addictive to watch, not only on their own but also together. The chemistry these two actors created with one another had you believing they are the best of buds in the outside world too. Not only did their convincing bond aid in creating some very funny comedic moments, but also helped to push both characters stories along, making you see a huge character development not only from Eddie, but also Bronson. The wonderfully cheeky cameo appearances from actors such as Christopher Walken and Jim Broadbent also added to the impressive cast.
Feel-good films – especially ones that actually class themselves as such – can sometimes be full of so much cheese, it gets quite difficult to watch, but this one had the perfect balance. The raw British personality that the film encompassed allowed the film to be brought straight back down to Earth once a bit of cheesy Americanised humour pops up. This also helps the film to feel more realistic, by keeping to the true story of Eddie actually having come last at the Olympics, but winning in his own right by achieving his only ever ambition; to compete at the Olympics. It feels a little like Cool Runnings (in which the first Jamaican bobsled team is created) in this sense, by cheering for the hard-workers, the more deserved, the underdog and the underestimated.
Adding to the enjoyment of the story, the upbeat soundtrack to the film was subtle enough to fit in, but fun enough to keep the tempo of the movie at the perfect pace for you to never become bored or distracted. It would be advisable to drink as little as possible before and during the film because there is absolutely no point at which you will feel it’s acceptable to make a loo break. The infectiousness of the film keeps your eyes glued to the screen and ears pricked up, with you not knowing what ludicrous character will pop up next, or what humorous moment will have you belly laughing, or even when you get a surprisingly touching scene.
Although the film may not be classed as Oscar-worthy, it’s impossible to pick fault with it, purely due to the fun that exudes the movie, the spot-on comedy, and the smile you have on your face as you reach the end. Although you have to take the “based on a true story” comment with a sprinkling of salt, it’s fascinating to see all the hurdles Eddie comes up against, and how much spirit he has to jump over each of them. It will certainly exceed your expectations, and is guaranteed to give you a good, warm feeling, even if just for the hour and 45 minutes that you’re watching. The eagle (this time referring to a successful British comedic film) has finally landed.
Eddie the Eagle in on general release now.
We have a favour to ask
LeftLion is Nottingham’s meeting point for information about what’s going on in our city, from the established organisations to the grassroots. We want to keep what we do free to all to access, but increasingly we are relying on revenue from our readers to continue. Can you spare a few quid each month to support us?
