Friday Night Movie: Cool Runnings

It tis the season and this week we are feeling very Olympic as we slide into a heartwarming and humorous underdog tale with “Cool Runnings,” the 1993 comedy that delivers a hefty dose of laughter and spirit. Directed by Jon Turteltaub and inspired by true events, this film tells the story of the first Jamaican bobsled team fighting to compete in the Winter Olympics. Amidst the snow and ice, a tale of perseverance, unlikely friendship, and sheer determination unfolds, making “Cool Runnings” a standout choice in our series.

It’s a must-watch because it wraps relatable dreams and hilarious setbacks in a package that’s a perfect blend of comedy and inspiration.

Plot

The plot of “Cool Runnings” centres around Derice Bannock, a hopeful Olympic sprinter whose dreams are dashed when an accident during the Olympic trials prevents him from qualifying. Unwilling to let go of his Olympic aspirations, Derice discovers a less conventional path to his dream: winter bobsledding. Together with his best friend Sanka, the happiest egg-cart driver and least likely bobsledder, and two other island athletes, they enlist the help of a washed-up, ex-bobsled champion from America named Irv Blitzer. Irv, played masterfully by John Candy, is a reluctant coach struggling with his own past failures. As the newly formed team embarks on their journey, they face scepticism and scorn from the traditional bobsledding powers, for whom a Jamaican bobsled team is nothing short of a joke.

Yet, their journey is about more than just sports. It’s about the clash of cultures, the breaking of stereotypes, and the creation of a new sporting legend. As they train, facing physical mishaps and hilarious cultural misunderstandings, the men grow not just in skill but in spirit. Their final push to qualify for the Olympic games in Calgary becomes a testament to their grit and unity, challenging the icy world of winter sports with their island spirit. Their resolve is tested time and again, culminating in moments of triumph and failure that reveal the true strength of their bond and the indomitable spirit of underdogs everywhere.

Cast

Leon plays Derice Bannock, whose leadership and optimism drive the team’s ambitions. Doug E. Doug brings a comedic brilliance to the role of Sanka Coffie, providing much of the film’s comic relief with his light-hearted outlook and fear of the cold. Rawle D. Lewis and Malik Yoba add to the team’s dynamic as Junior Bevil and Yul Brenner, each offering backstories that enrich their characters’ personal stakes in the team’s success. However, the core of the movie’s story revolves around John Candy’s portrayal of Irv Blitzer, the team’s coach, providing a strong hand mentor to the team while following his own dreams for redemption and acceptance.

Reviews

There is no denying that “Cool Runnings” is a classic and hands down one of the best 90s movies. From day one the film has received positive reviews from both audiences and critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film enjoys a heartwarming approval rating of 81% audience score, praised for its family-friendly narrative and uplifting spirit.

IMDb users have similarly rated the film highly with a score of 7.1/10 from over 100,000 reviews, often citing its ability to blend humour with inspirational themes effectively.

Trailer

How To Watch Cool Runnings

The Craft is available to stream on Disney+.

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20 Movies Turning 20 In 2024

Time flies when you’re enjoying great movies, and 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of some absolute classics from 2004.

As we journey back to 2004, we are reminded of a time when movies were celebrated for their groundbreaking stories, unforgettable characters, and iconic moments that have stood the test of time. This was a year that gifted us with films that have since become cinematic landmarks, shaping genres and influencing countless filmmakers and audiences alike. From epic fantasies and intense thrillers to heartwarming comedies and stirring dramas, 2004 was a year of diverse and exceptional filmmaking.

Join us as we celebrate the 20 best movies turning 20 in 2024, a nostalgic journey that will transport you back to a time when these films first graced the big screen. Whether you watched them in a packed theatre, rented them from a video store, or discovered them on a streaming service, these movies have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

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