Eddie Edwards (Taron Egerton) dreams of the Olympics as a ten-year-old. Unfortunately, he’s terrible at everything. His mother is incredibly supportive; his father is… not. But when Eddie discovers ski jumping, he realizes that he could be the first British Olympian in the sport (since 1929). Against all odds, he pursues his dream.
Hugh Jackman and Christopher Walken show up as one-time Olympian Bronson Peary and his former mentor Warren Sharp. These two have their own issues, but they are ultimately pulled into the vortex that is Eddie’s undying enthusiasm to be an Olympian. From the narrative perspective, Edwards’ unwillingness to give up and his powerful joy stand up in amazing ways.
Behind the story, Egerton’s transformation from Eggsy in?Kingsman to Edwards is nothing short of amazing. If I hadn’t previously read about Egerton’s involvement, I never would have believed this was the same guy. His delivery and mannerisms are so remarkably different that they match the changes (prosthetics) made to Egerton’s appearance as well.
While the film is about Edwards pursuing his dream, it’s also about reconciliation. Can Peary and Sharp get over their old wounds? Will Edwards ever receive the approval of his father that he longs for? What will it take to get the people in Edwards’ life to see what they have and appreciate it, rather than constantly beating on each other’s dreams?
So many figures from the Old and New Testament receive messages from God in their dreams; of course, Edwards’ dream is different but no less powerful. In the end, he recognizes who he is and what he’s called to do, regardless of the odds. It’s uplifting, powerful, and family-oriented in a way that rises to just the perfect height.