2006 * PG-13 * 1h 36m The moving true story about Graeme Obree, the Scottish cycling champ who broke the one hour world record in 1993. Graeme (Jonny Lee Miller) was an unemployed cycling enthusiast who fashioned a revolutionary new bike out of scrap metal and washing machine parts.
The film begins with a cyclist out in the woods (who we later learn is in fact Graeme). He throws a rope over the branch of a tree with the intention of killing himself. We then cut to Graeme several years before, and follow him on his quest to build his bike and race to break the world record. What an inspiring story. You know going into the movie that he'll succeed, but it's the journey there that makes such a compelling film. Miller does a great job portraying Obree, as does Laura Fraser who plays his loyal and supportive wife Anne. I also enjoyed seeing Brian Cox, who plays a minister who's also in Obree's corner. It's always a delight to see him act.
The Flying Scotsman isn't all Chariot's of Fire success however. The film deals with Obree's chronic depression, which is partly due to his rough childhood. Overall, the film is full of hope and redemption. I must warn you though, the Scottish accents are a bit difficult at times. I may go back and watch this with the subtitles on. But if you're a fan of british films, you should be okay with the dialect.
4 out of 5 stars.
Streaming for free on Hoopla (with your library card) and Tubi.
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