Most Memorable Films Of The Winter Olympics: The Underdogs

With the 2022 Winter Olympics now in full swing, television channels are flooded with hundreds of hours of coverage. While such publicity undoubtedly gets a new generation interested in winter sports, cinema offers an alternative way of viewing those athletic competitions that seem quite other-worldly and inaccessible.

Through film, the journey and challenges inherent to a career in elite sport is captured, something that is often lost in the quick, competitive nature of broadcasting the Games. Cool Runnings, I, Tonya, and Eddie the Eagle reflect those core Olympic values of perseverance and remain memorable depictions of Olympic winter sports (for very different reasons). These film do more than just entertain. They amaze and inspire those who begin to wonder whether they can do these incredible things as well. After all, there is no better way to inspire new potential sportspeople.

Cool Runnings (1993) dir. Jon Turteltaub

Cool Runnings appeals to the masses even three decades after its release, remaining memorable for showcasing four athletes attempting to participate in the Olympics in any way possible—even if it means being the first bobsleigh team for Jamaica. Originally beginning as participants in the 100m, who then go on to compete in the Winter Olympics to try and taste Olympic glory, this triumph alone shows a determination that highlights the spirit of the Games. Loosely based on true events, the kind of realism and humanity in the performance—having a laugh amidst unimaginable stress and panic—reflects why the film is held in such high regard.

Cool Runnings showcases the joy of such a risky sport and, by showcasing Jamaican athletes unexpectedly succeeding in the Winter Olympics, challenges expectations of who exactly gets to compete in winter sports at the highest level. The performances of the leading four actors capture the awe of entering the sport for the first time. In finding great humour in representing the idealistic underdogs, it is clear why the film remains a comedic favourite. As one of the only winter sporting films to focus on a team, it is refreshing to see those interactions play out as the four athletes slowly gel into a formidable, competitive team. Cool Runnings brings bobsleighing, a sport known only by name to many people, to the forefront of the Winter Olympics’ exposure, and in doing so, creates an exhilarating, memorable dip into what the Winter Games have to offer.

I, Tonya (2017) dir. Craig Gillespie

I, Tonya follows the true story of Tonya Harding’s problematic journey to become a competitive ice-skater. The film encapsulates the rollercoaster journey for Olympic athletes, struggle and all. I, Tonya stands out for Tonya’s presentation; she is depicted as resenting established Olympic tradition (wearing what she would like, completing risky moves), and all the while she constantly tests herself and the sport. Tonya embraces the perseverance of an athlete, and despite major ethical issues in her sporting achievements (the involvement in an assault of U.S Olympic rival), she remains the first woman to complete a triple axel.

Although not the feel-good, sugarcoated norm for inspiring Olympic portrayals, I, Tonya stands as one reflecting the turbulent journey athletes go through. It stands out because this is not a clear-cut success story. Tonya (played by Margot Robbie) shows the full palette of emotios. Combined with the voiceover, montage sequences and stellar assistant performances from the likes of Sebastian Stan and Allison Janney, it remains a poignant testimony to how intense and formidable the sport of ice skating can be. Meanwhile, I, Tonya takes its place as one of the most iconic adaptions of Olympic sport.

Eddie the Eagle (2016) dir. Dexter Fletcher

A great British ‘success’ story, Eddie the Eagle showcases the charismatic if somewhat famously underperforming Michael Edwards, otherwise known as Eddie the Eagle. As another true story, it follows the underdog, a trope well executed in sports films. Taron Egerton, who has assumed many youthful and conventionally cool roles (particularly in the Kingsman franchise), fills the role of Eddie—an unexpected casting choice and yet one that proves to be a success. Co-starring with Egerton are Hugh Jackman as Bronsen Peary, Edward’s mentor who practices a comical pessimism in contrast to a protagonist filled with life, optimism, and a deep appreciation for taking part.

Eddie the Eagle encapsulates the love of sport with joy and comedy. Known for his thick-framed glasses, it is refreshing to see Eddie triumphing with his visual impairment and financial hurdles, showcasing a working-class person succeeding no matter their differences (and challenging elitist notions of what success really looks like). Without negating the huge achievement of his qualifications, it cements what every parent has told their child and the spirit of the Olympic Games themselves; it is the taking part that counts.

Coincidentally enough, the films highlighted on are all loosely based on true stories. Naturally, people are drawn to films which represent truth, portraying those real feelings of determination, failure, and eventual success. The nature of these films are comedic, and although they have some darker moments (usually about two-thirds in when they are struggling to succeed), it is evident they follow this particular pattern to inspire their audience. The Winter Olympics remains far from the reality of a person’s everyday, yet these films offer glimpses into a journey of becoming an elite athlete in winter sports. The far-fetched nature of a winter athlete’s journey becomes less so with the uphill battle that usually occurs. And that struggle is exactly what remains relatable for an audience. As has been said time and time again, everyone loves an underdog.

Words by Annabel Smith

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