Cool Runnings is a 1993 family film about a Jamaican sprinter who is disqualified from the Olympic Games, enlisting the help of a dishonored coach to start the first Jamaican Bobsled Team.
It’s Olympic time and so here’s a story based (loosely) the the real life adventure of one of the most unusual teams in the games. It follows Derice Bannock (Leon Robinson), a world class sprinter who fails to qualify for the 1988 Summer Olympics. Undeterred, he concosts a plan to compete in the winter games … in bobsledding … for Jamaica, a country not particularly known for its snowy winterlands. He recruits former Gold medal winner Irving “Irv” Blitzer (John Candy), now living in disgrace for alleged cheating. He agrees and while building a team is one thing, getting sponsors is another. What follows is a light-hearted but inspiring story of spirit and determination as the unlikely team work their magic to earn a trip to the big event. An uplifting sports film with some great performances and loads of charm, this is a must for Candy fans and lovers of the underdog sports movies.
THE LAST WORD
Fun and family friendly, this is a sure bet for a good time with the kids. Funny, moving and full of inspiring moments, if you’re in the Olympic spirit, you can’t miss with this.
While it’s based on true events, it obviously takes some major liberties, with Candy’s character an entirely made of figure. It does at least encourage research to learn more.