A feel-good film from 2016 has been winning hearts all over again, with fans now able to stream it for free at home. The uplifting sports drama is based on the ‘true’ story of Michael “Eddie” Edwards, a plucky British ski-jumper whose relentless self-belief kept him going despite a sceptical nation.
With the assistance of a roguish and charming coach, Eddie challenges the powers that be and captures the affection of sports enthusiasts globally by making an unexpected and historic appearance at the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics.
His unconventional methods and unwavering resolve to triumph against the odds garnered immense public backing.
Eddie the Eagle features Taron Egerton as Eddie, portraying the endearing underdog with an indomitable spirit, and Hugh Jackman as his fictional coach Bronson Peary, who is initially reluctant and fond of a drink, reports the Mirror.
Boasting a commendable 82% score on Rotten Tomatoes, the film has received heaps of praise, and viewers can catch it on BBC iPlayer.
One reviewer enthused: “Eddie the Eagle is one of those underdog sports stories we all love so much, with an excellent performance from the likeable, empathetic Hugh Jackman.”
Another commented: “Few films are this delightful and positive – I challenge you not to get swept up in Eddie’s story and root for him along the way.”
“Despite its flaws, Eddie the Eagle boasts a strong cast, good script and, like Eddie himself, a lot of heart. Watch it at least once. You won’t regret it,” one reviewer shared.
Another penned: “The film could so easily have made Eddie a figure of fun. Instead it turns an underdog into a very British kind of hero.”
A different voice added: “Fletcher has a brilliantly attuned sixth sense for what his audience wants to see at any given millisecond, and Eddie’s final flight, from the 90-foot ramp at Calgary, is a mini-masterpiece of intuitive cutting.”
Eddie the Eagle is streaming now on BBC iPlayer.