This year brings two feature films with an Olympic sports theme; Race and Eddie the Eagle
Race
Director: Stephen Hopkins
Starring: Stephan James, Jason Sudeikis, Eli Goree
Olympics: Berlin 1936
Based on: The life and achievements of Jesse Owens (historical film footage)
More info: Official website
Based on the incredible true story of Jesse Owens, the legendary athletic superstar whose quest to become the greatest track and field athlete in history thrusts him onto the world stage of the 1936 Olympics, where he faces off against Adolf Hitler’s vision of Aryan supremacy. “Race” is an enthralling film about courage, determination, tolerance, and friendship, and an inspiring drama about one man’s fight to become an Olympic legend.
Eddie the Eagle
Director: Dexter Fletcher
Starring: Taron Egerton, Hugh Jackman, Tom Costello Jr.
Olympics: Calgary 1988
Based on: Eddie Edwards, first competitor to represent Great Britain in Olympic ski jumping (historical film footage)
More info: Official website
Interesting fact: The film wasn’t shot in Calgary, but in Oberstdorf – Germany (read more)
Inspired by true events, Eddie the Eagle is a feel-good story about Michael “Eddie” Edwards (Taron Egerton), an unlikely but courageous British ski-jumper who never stopped believing in himself – even as an entire nation was counting him out. With the help of a rebellious and charismatic coach (played by Hugh Jackman), Eddie takes on the establishment and wins the hearts of sports fans around the world by making an improbable and historic showing at the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics. From producers of Kingsman: The Secret Service, Eddie the Eagle stars Taron Egerton as Eddie, the loveable underdog with a never say die attitude.