Why It Ranks
Eddie the Eagle is the most feel-good sports film of the 2010s. Egerton's earnest performance is infectious. Jackman provides the perfect mentor dynamic. The true story of an underdog who delighted the world is irresistible.
The Film
Eddie the Eagle is the charming true story of Michael Edwards, the lovably hopeless British ski jumper who became the unlikely hero of the 1988 Calgary Olympics. Taron Egerton is perfectly cast as Eddie — bespectacled, enthusiastic, and utterly unafraid of failure. Hugh Jackman adds gruff warmth as his fictional coach. The film is a pure celebration of the Olympic spirit: it is not about winning, it is about having the courage to try.
Fun Facts
The real Eddie Edwards visited the set and said Taron Egerton captured his spirit perfectly.
Hugh Jackman's character is entirely fictional — Edwards trained largely on his own.
Eddie's real Olympic performance was so endearing that the IOC created the 'Eddie the Eagle Rule' to prevent future unqualified entrants.
Director Dexter Fletcher went on to direct Rocketman and finish Bohemian Rhapsody.
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