Olympics first look of 'Unbroken' is inspirational

Posted Monday, February 17, 2014 at 2:36 PM Central
Last updated Monday, February 17, 2014 at 2:37 PM Central

by John Couture

As you know, I've been touting Unbroken for a long time now. Almost three years ago, I told you that Universal had grabbed the rights to the book and along the way, we've checked in on the project from time to time.

Earlier this year, I put it on my sleepers list and I think you'll agree after watching the first footage from the film below that its placement was well-earned. While reading the book, I always felt that it really felt like a screenplay because let's face it, Louis Zamperini's life is more remarkable than any film could ever pretend it is.

In fact, I'm sure some people will see the film and question the true story aspect of it, but it's completely true, all the way down to Zamperini himself who stars in this first look from Universal. Considering Zamperini's cameo at the 1936 Berlin Olympics and the parallels from that experience that drive the latter half of the story, it's not surprising that Universal/NBC would use the Winter Olympics to showcase this film.

Think about it, it's the perfect bookend to the uplifting spirit of the Olympic games. Not every athlete can win a gold medal, but they can make a difference with their life and Louis Zamperini definitely made a difference at a time when this country desperately needed heroes. The film opens on Christmas and will most certainly turn a lot of heads during awards season, but all of that, like the gold medal to Zamperini, is secondary to actually living life.

I think you'll agree that this film looks to have accomplished that splendidly. I can't wait to see the film for myself.