6 Spectacular Reasons to See 'Eddie the Eagle'

There are many inspirational movies out there, all with their own great story to tell. Many of them are based on true stories, and they warm your heart with each viewing, giving new hope to multiple generations. Eddie the Eagle premiered at Sundance film festival in a secret screening, and as someone who had the privilege to see it, I can say without a doubt that this movie will inspire generations to come.

1. It is based on a true story.

Against all odds, this man from Britain was able to qualify for the 1988 Winter Olympics as a high jumper, even after they changed the minimum amount of distance you had to be able to land to qualify. He persevered and was able to do what many thought was impossible.

2. Taron is entirely genuine in his performance.

Taron Egerton is definitely someone to watch as an up and comer, after already getting our attention with his role in [Kingsman: The Secret Service](tag:713143). Here he plays the lovable Michael "Eddie" Edwards, a determined young man who won't let injuries, an Olympic committee, or a doubting father tell him that he shouldn't be trying for the Olympics. He believes in himself, and that's good enough for him. Taron gets this look in his eyes at times that seems like a fire when he begins to speak passionately about how much he wants this, but there is also an innocence that makes him entirely endearing to the audience that leaves you wanting to cheer him on. Trust me when I say this as well, you will be.

3. Hugh Jackman is at his finest.

Hugh plays Eddie's coach Bronson Peary, who actually was an Olympics champion himself in 1968. While he is forced into the coaching position by Eddie's unwavering persistence, their bond and eventual friendship becomes one of the best parts of the film. His humor alleviates some of the tension and the way that he and Taron play off of each other is just fantastic.

4. The cinematography is spectacular.

One of the hardest things for a director is to pull off intense shots, especially when they involve action or fast movement. While there are no exploding cars or people shooting guns, this movie has it's own visual effects style when it comes to the speed and elevation that is needed when someone is high ski jumping. You feel the height of these jumps and the emotions that Eddie is feeling as he waits until the last possible second to let go. You are breathless as the camera swoops down and you feel as though you are jumping off the jump yourself. While a few of the shots do look fake, for the most part the shots are realistic, or are real, and don't detract from the overall feel of the movie.

5. The humor is great.

A lot of the scenes have a touch of humor in them, whether there is a snide comment from Peary about how Eddie is going to break his neck, Eddie's dad making some remark about getting a real job, or Eddie himself making just subtle faces and reacting to things, you will find yourself smiling throughout the movie. Taron has a subtlety about him and is very aware of how to be funny without going over the top. Even when it seems like he is about to, it still gets handled in a perfect way and brings you back into the story.

6. There is a whole lot of heart in it.

There is a quote from Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of modern Olympics, that states:

"The most important thing about the Olympic Games is not winning, but taking part; the second thing in life is not conquering but fighting well."

Eddie wasn't worried about winning the gold medal. He wasn't worried about being the best skier, or being well known. All he knew was that he wanted to prove to everyone that he could do it. This movie is perfect to show to your family and show that hard work and perseverance really do pay off. Eddie went from a kid who was sick in the hospital with knee problems, to Britain's record holder for a high ski jumper and that is an incredible accomplishment. It doesn't matter if you win, if you work your hardest and do your absolute best. Eddie the Eagle can make the least believing heart soar. It truly is not a movie to miss.