I, Tonya
"I, Tonya" is a biographical dark comedy-drama that revolves around the life of Tonya Harding, a talented but controversial figure skater. The film is presented in a mockumentary-style format, blending interviews with the characters and real-life footage to tell Tonya's story.
The movie begins with a young Tonya, who is raised by her tough and abusive mother, LaVona Golden, in Oregon. Despite her challenging upbringing, Tonya develops exceptional skating skills and dreams of becoming an Olympic champion. She is eventually taken under the wing of Diane Rawlinson, a demanding and ambitious coach, who sees Tonya's potential.
As Tonya progresses in her skating career, she faces many obstacles, including her troubled personal life and the elitism within the figure skating community. Her relationships with her on-and-off boyfriend, Jeff Gillooly, and her tumultuous marriage to him, become central to the story. Jeff's friend, Shawn Eckhardt, also becomes involved in Tonya's life and plays a pivotal role in a major incident that shapes her future.
Considered one of the best movies about the Olympics, "I, Tonya" received critical acclaim for its performances (especially Margot Robbie's portrayal of Tonya Harding) and its unapologetic approach to storytelling. It humanizes a controversial figure, giving audiences a chance to understand the person behind the tabloid headlines and public image. Through its raw and darkly comedic lens, "I, Tonya" sheds light on the complexities of fame, the pursuit of success, and the impact of one's upbringing on their life's trajectory.
Release: 2017
Stars: Margot Robbie, Sebastian Stan, Allison Janney
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 90%