The film that inspired Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar is a feel-good classic- Breaking Away

The most iconic sports movies follow a certain framework. They’re packed with winning moments and crushing losses. They tuck in nuggets of wisdom about the relentless spirit that drives some to go beyond the limits of human potential to achieve incredible glory. But there are also some that stray away from convention and try to weave a more emotional and sensitive narrative that touches a necessary nerve. That’s right, we’re talking about Breaking Away, a 1979 classic that might’ve slipped off the radar but is still as fresh and relevant as ever.

For the uninitiated, we’re talking about the film that inspired Aamir Khan’s 1992 superhit Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar. Breaking Away is a film about identity, dreams, friendship, and the sharp stinging feeling that’s synonymous with being an outsider. So here’s the setting: we’re in Bloomington, Indiana, and the story revolves around four working-class teenagers – Dave, Mike, Cyril, and Moocher – who call themselves the “Cutters”. They’re stuck between high school and adulthood, feeling the weight of being left behind while the local university students seem to glide through life with ease. The film tackles themes we can all relate to. Feeling like you don’t belong? Yup, we’ve all been there. Trying to chase a dream that seems out of reach? Tell me about it! This film hits those emotional notes and will leave a lasting impression with its compelling narrative.

The film also features a rather young Dennis Quaid, before he became the star we know today. Quaid plays Mike, a brooding former high school football star grappling with the fact that his glory days might be behind him. His portrayal of disillusionment and vulnerability is truly singular. And then there’s the standout performance from Dennis Christopher as Dave Stohler, the lead character obsessed with Italian cycling, to the point where he even fakes an Italian accent! It’s quirky, it’s heartfelt, and honestly, it’s what makes Dave so endearing. His journey of self-discovery is the backbone of the film, and you can’t help but root for him.

One of the reasons why this film slipped through the cracks is it didn’t quite fit into the mould of a conventional sports movie. Unlike Rocky or The Karate Kid, Breaking Away is more of a coming-of-age story with bikes in the background. The 1970s and early 80s saw a lot of films centred around sporting triumphs, and Breaking Away chose a different, more subtle route, focusing on the personal victories of its characters rather than big, dramatic sports moments. But that’s precisely why it holds up so well! The movie’s quieter moments – the humour, the small-town charm, the complexities of family dynamics – make it more than just another sports flick.

The film also addresses class struggles in a way that resonates to this day. The tension between the “Cutters” and the privileged university students speaks to the timeless theme of feeling excluded from the elite. Even today, with conversations around social mobility, education, and class divides, Breaking Away touches on something universal.

So why should you watch Breaking Away? Well, it’s a feel-good story with real emotional depth, and it captures the essence of finding your way in the world when you’re not quite sure where you belong. Whether you’re in the mood for a bit of nostalgia, a heartwarming tale, or just an enjoyable film with some great cycling action – this one’s got it all. And, it’s available on Disney+Hotstar in India. So, no excuses – it’s time to hit ‘play’ and rediscover this forgotten gem.

Written by Kunal Guha