Get ready for today’s 2nd and last…Blast from the Past!
From Jon Turteltaub, the director of “While You Were Sleeping” (1995), “Phenomenon” (1996), “Last Vegas” (2013), and others, comes this delightful sports comedy…
Irving: “A gold medal is a wonderful thing, but if you’re not enough without it, you’ll never be enough with it.”
“Cool Runnings” released on this day October 1st 1993, making the film 25 years old as of today.
Loosely based on the true story of the Jamaican national bobsled team’s first appearance in competition during the 1988 Winter Olympics in Canada, the film follows a Jamaican runner (Leon) who after being disqualified from the Olympic Games, recruits 3 of his friends (Doug E. Doug, Rawle D. Lewis, and Malik Yoba) and a dishonored coach (Primetime Emmy winner John Candy in his last role during his lifetime before his death in March 1994) to participate in the Winter Olympics as the first Jamaican bobsled team.
Fun fact: the film is recognized by the AFI (American Film Institute) in the following lists; 100 Years…100 Cheers, and 10 Top 10 – Sports film.
Some of the film’s highlights include the formulaic yet touching story, determination which is often seen in most sport films, cast, performances, humor, soundtrack including Jimmy Cliff’s cover version of “I Can See Clearly Now”, and overall charm.
On a personal note, it is likely that the film will be placed on my upcoming list; Top 10 Films You Won’t Believe are Turning 25.
If you are looking for an entertaining and cheerful underdog film, then this is for you, or for anyone you know, who likes the aforementioned aspects.
Recommended to sports, comedy, Disney, and family film admirers.

Poster design and artwork: Unknown.