About a month ago, I proudly strutted myself into the local movie theater with some friends, expecting to look up the show times for the much anticipated film, 'I, Tonya.' Much to our dismay, it was only set for special release, and it didn't reach Houston until last night.
I saw Margot Robbie's performance yesterday at Alamo Drafthouse in Katy, Texas, and I have to say I went through a whole rollercoaster of emotion.
I am a huge sucker for any ice skating movie (Ice Castles, Ice Princess, ice anything really...), and let me just say that this was no Disney film. The sequined costumes, elegant moves, and huge hair was all present, but 'I, Tonya' offered a gritty perspective to the figure skating world in a way that could be comparable to what 'Black Swan' did for ballet.
Margot Robbie, as well as the other actors in the film, did a superb job and had me hanging onto the edge of my seat, both wide-eyed and flinching with each passing scene.
By now we should all know the famed story of how Nancy Kerrigan was attacked during the 1994 winter Olympic trials, and how Tonya Harding was at the root of it all. While this movie did have high drama, fabulous skating, and a compelling story, what it failed to do for me was give all the facts of the case.
Sure, it is compelling to have Tonya, a girl from the wrong side of the tracks, overcome obstacles and face adversity. However, let's not forget who the real victim in this saga is: Nancy Kerrigan. Any professional athlete can tell you that their profession requires great sacrifice... it, however, does not require you to get your knee bashed in as a result of the scheming of someone who should be your friend.
Don't get me wrong - Hollywood has the right to make whatever kind of movie it wants, and I did find the film funny and compelling. However, it can be a little rough watching a character play the victim card over and over again. I would absolutely love to see a film about an athletic, driven young woman who overcame unsurmountable odds, was thankful for all of the opportunities she was given (hello? Tonya Harding was sent to two Olympics 1992 and 1994... get it together girl).
How about 'I, Nancy'? Just a thought!
