By Robyn Kass-Gerji special to the chronicle
When Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the International Olympic Committee, said, “The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning but taking part; the essential thing in life is not conquering but fighting well. All sports for all people,” he did not know it would be taken to heart by a boy who wanted his own moment.
Michael “Eddie the Eagle” Edwards fought through injuries, doubts and humiliation to become an inspiration to the world at the 1988 Olympics. After only training to be a ski jumper for a year, he became an Olympic legend who would not stand to be a joke in the eye of the media.
The newly released movie, “Eddie The Eagle” brought this inspiration to life on the big screen. Taron Egerton, who plays Eddie, portrayed the Olympian with a poised attitude and determination.
Alongside Egerton was his coach Bronson Peary – the former Olympian turned disgrace – depicted by the Academy Award nominee Hugh Jackman. Both portrayed their characters with outstanding performances.
I had the opportunity to attend the New York red carpet premiere of “Eddie The Eagle” on Feb. 23 at the Chelsea Bow Tie Cinemas.
Present at the screening were Egerton, Jackman, director Dexter Fletcher and the real Michael “Eddie the Eagle” Edwards.
Before the screening began, the four guests gave speeches about the creation and inspiration of the movie. All four stated how they are extremely proud of their work with the movie and the final product.
They gave great praise to Edwards for being as courageous as he was and still is. During the introductions, Jackman said to Mr. Edwards, “We’re very proud of this movie and what you did. What you did in real life was so extraordinary. We only pretended. What you did was real.”
Watching the movie myself, I understood why Jackman characterized Edwards this way. He defied all odds and broke the British world record in ski jumping at the 1988 Olympic Games. He spurred inspiration in spectators across the world and fought against the British Olympic Association to earn his right to compete.
Jackman’s character took convincing to help coach the young Edwards into becoming an Olympic ski jumper. However, once he realized that Edwards was never going to give up and showed outstanding determination, he decided he wasn’t going to let him do it on his own.
“Eddie The Eagle” is a classic story that showcases what it takes to defy the odds.