I, Tonya

| 2017

Directed by: Craig Gillespie

Main Plot

"I, Tonya," directed by Craig Gillespie, is a darkly comedic biographical film that chronicles the tumultuous life of American figure skater Tonya Harding. The story delves into her rise in the competitive skating world, marked by her raw talent and unconventional background. It explores her complex relationships, particularly with her abusive mother and volatile husband. The film's central event is the infamous 1994 attack on rival skater Nancy Kerrigan, which led to a media frenzy and Harding's eventual downfall. Through a mix of interviews and dramatizations, the film portrays Harding as a misunderstood and resilient figure, challenging the public's perception of her role in the scandal.

Characters

  • Margot Robbie plays Tonya Harding, a competitive figure skater embroiled in a scandal involving an attack on her rival, Nancy Kerrigan, which impacts her career and personal life.
  • Sebastian Stan plays Jeff Gillooly, Tonya Harding's ex-husband, who is involved in the infamous attack on her skating rival, Nancy Kerrigan.
  • Allison Janney plays LaVona Golden, Tonya Harding's abusive and controlling mother, whose harsh treatment significantly impacts Tonya's life and skating career.

Ending Explained

In the conclusion of 'I, Tonya', directed by Craig Gillespie, the film wraps up the tumultuous and controversial life of figure skater Tonya Harding. The narrative culminates with the aftermath of the infamous 1994 attack on Nancy Kerrigan, orchestrated by Harding's ex-husband Jeff Gillooly and his associates. Despite Harding's claims of innocence regarding the planning of the attack, she is implicated in the scandal. The court sentences her to three years of probation, 500 hours of community service, and a $100,000 fine. Most devastatingly, she is banned for life from competitive figure skating by the U.S. Figure Skating Association. The film portrays Harding's struggle to find her place in the world after her skating career is abruptly ended. She attempts various jobs, including professional boxing, to make ends meet. The ending underscores the complexity of Harding's character, depicting her as a victim of her circumstances and upbringing, while also acknowledging her role in the scandal. The film closes with real-life footage of Harding, emphasizing the blurred lines between her public persona and private struggles.

Craig Gillespie Biography Comedy Drama Margot Robbie Sebastian Stan Allison Janney