“Cool Runnings” is a sports comedy film released by Walt Disney Pictures in 1993. The movie is loosely based on the true story of the Jamaican national bobsled team that competed in the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Canada.
The story revolves around four Jamaican athletes from different backgrounds who come together with the dream of competing in the Winter Olympics, even though Jamaica has never participated in the winter sports. The main characters are Derice Bannock (played by Leon), a talented sprinter; Sanka Coffie (played by Doug E. Doug), Derice’s laid-back best friend; Junior Bevil (played by Rawle D. Lewis), a young man who struggles to find his purpose; and Yul Brenner (played by Malik Yoba), a former American bobsledder.
After a mishap during the Olympic trials that derails their plans for the summer Olympics, the athletes decide to pursue their dreams by forming Jamaica’s first bobsled team. With the help of Irving “Irv” Blitzer (played by John Candy), a disgraced former bobsled champion, the team begins an intense training program in tropical Jamaica, preparing for the winter sport in a land where snow is unheard of.
The film humorously portrays the team’s cultural clashes, the challenges they face, and the resilience they display throughout their journey. Despite facing skepticism and prejudice from other teams and officials, the Jamaican bobsled team gains the respect and admiration of both the spectators and their competitors.
“Cool Runnings” is a heartwarming and inspirational film that highlights the spirit of determination, teamwork, and the pursuit of one’s dreams against all odds. It emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and never giving up, no matter the obstacles that may come one’s way.
The film was well-received by both audiences and critics for its blend of comedy, drama, and sports action. “Cool Runnings” remains a beloved and iconic Disney movie, continuing to inspire and entertain audiences around the world with its uplifting message and memorable characters.
Fun Facts
- The film’s bobsled scenes were shot on location in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and feature actual footage of Olympic bobsled competitions.
Additional Details
Cast
- Leon Robinson: Derice Bannock
- Doug E. Doug: Sanka Coffie
- Rawle D. Lewis: Junior Bevil
- Malik Yoba: Yul Brenner
- John Candy: Irving “Irv” Blitzer
- Raymond J. Barry: Kurt Hemphill
- Peter Outerbridge: Josef Grull
- Paul Coeur: Roger
- Larry Gilman: Larry
- Charles Hyatt: Whitby Bevil
- Winston Stona: Coolidge
- Bertina Macauley: Joy Bannock
- Kristoffer Cooper: Winston
Crew
- Director: Jon Turteltaub
- Producer: Dawn Steel and Chris Meledandri
- Music: Hans Zimmer
