Eddie the Eagle 2016

As the calendar flips to 1973, ten-year-old Michael “Eddie” Edwards’ relentless pursuit of Olympic greatness begins. Despite being confined to a medical regimen for walking difficulties, Eddie’s fervent imagination fuels his desire to stand atop the podium. His mother remains an unwavering source of encouragement, while his father’s skepticism casts a shadow over Eddie’s aspirations. As he enters his teenage years, Eddie refuses to surrender his dream of competing in the Summer Games, but ultimately finds himself thwarted by rejection. Undeterred, he turns his attention to skiing, only to be dismissed by British Olympic officials for his rough-around-the-edges demeanor.

In a last-ditch effort to participate in the Winter Games, Eddie shifts his focus to ski jumping, an event that has eluded British participation for six decades. Despite being met with condescension from more seasoned jumpers at a training facility in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, West Germany, Eddie’s determination and willingness to learn earn him a spot among the ranks.

As he devotes himself to self-training, Eddie’s initial success on the 15-metre (49 ft) hill gives way to a devastating injury on his first attempt at the 40-metre (130 ft) slope. It is here that he encounters Bronson Peary, an American former champion ski jumper whose own Olympic aspirations were dashed by a falling out with his mentor, Warren Sharp. Despite their differences, Eddie’s unwavering spirit and shared experience as outsiders forge a bond between him and Bronson.

Under the guidance of Petra, the compassionate owner of a local cafe, Eddie learns to harness his natural talent. With an ever-ticking clock ticking away, Eddie and Bronson employ unconventional methods to fine-tune his form, culminating in a triumphant completion of the 40m jump. The stage is now set for Eddie to qualify for the British Olympic division in ski jumping by conquering a daunting 70-metre (230 ft) hill.

Eddie’s remarkable feat earns him a spot on the British Olympic Team, but not before officials attempt to stifle his amateurish enthusiasm by raising the qualification bar to an astonishing 61 metres (200 ft). Refusing to back down, Eddie commits himself to rigorous training and performs on a circuit, gradually increasing his jump distances with each successive leap.

As Eddie (Michael Edwards) meticulously prepares for the final qualifying event before the cutoff date, he achieves a remarkable 61-meter leap in practice, only to be disheartened by a missed mark on his official attempt, resulting in his disqualification. However, just as Eddie is poised to return home, a letter arrives, confirming that his qualifying practice jump is indeed valid. Coach Bronson (Trevor Edwards) advises Eddie to wait four years and train extensively for the 1992 games, fearing he will embarrass himself and his country if he proceeds prematurely. Undeterred by this cautionary warning, Eddie remains resolute in his pursuit of excellence.

Upon arriving at the Calgary games, Eddie is met with scorn from his British counterparts, who exploit his naivety to get him intoxicated, causing him to miss the opening ceremonies. Despite a disappointing finish in the 70-meter jump with a distance of 60.5 meters (198 feet), Eddie sets a new British record. His triumphant celebrations ultimately win over the audience, and the media dubs him “Eddie ‘The Eagle’.” Over the phone, Bronson criticizes Eddie for not taking the sport seriously enough, prompting Eddie to publicly apologize for his behavior.

Desiring to prove his dedication and commitment to the sport, Eddie decides to enter the 90-meter (300-foot) jump, a daunting challenge he has never attempted before. Bronson travels to Calgary to offer his support. Following an uplifting conversation with his idol, Matti “The Flying Finn” Nykänen, on the lift to the top of the hill, Eddie miraculously lands a 71.5-meter (235-foot) jump. Although he finishes last once again, he receives widespread applause from the audience and TV viewers worldwide, earning him recognition in the closing speech delivered by Frank King, President of the Organising Committee for the Olympic Games.

British Olympic officials reluctantly accept Eddie’s participation, and Warren Sharp reconciles with Bronson. As Eddie returns home a national hero, he is welcomed by fans at the airport, as well as his beaming mother and father, who proudly wear matching jumpers that read “I’m Eddie’s dad.”