Stephen Hopkins directs this biographical drama chronicling the rise of African American athlete Jesse Owens (Stephan James) from promising hopeful to Olympic champion at the 1936 Berlin games. After becoming the first man from his family to go to college, Owens overcomes a number of challenges and breaks down racial barriers to become one of his country's best hopes for a medal at the upcoming Olympic games. With the event held in Nazi Germany, doubts still surround American participation, with Owens himself struggling with the moral dilemma. When the president of the International Olympic Committee Avery Brundage (Jeremy Irons) confirms that the United States team will compete, the stage is set for Owens to go head-to-head with the Nazi's vision of Aryan supremacy and shock the world with his record-breaking performances. The cast also includes Jason Sudeikis, Carice van Houten and William Hurt.