The Boys in the Boat

An elderly Joe Rantz watches his grandson row and reflects on his past. This moment stirs up memories of his own days on the water, filled with struggle and triumph.

In 1936, young Joe Rantz is a struggling engineering student living in an old car. With tuition fees looming and no job prospects, he faces the harsh reality of his situation, relying solely on canned food for survival.

Fellow student Roger Morris introduces Joe to the junior varsity rowing team at the University of Washington. This opportunity offers more than just rowing; it promises jobs and accommodation, presenting a glimmer of hope for Joe.

Coach Al Ulbrickson leads the team with high expectations during a pivotal year. With immense pressure to outperform rival Cal and qualify for the Olympics, the team members endure a grueling selection process.

Under Coach Al's tutelage, the team trains rigorously, aiming to double their oxygen intake compared to average humans. Joe and Roger embrace dorm life and even take on janitorial jobs to support their education.

As the team trains, Joe develops a budding romance with Joyce Simdars. He confides in George Pocock about his troubled past, revealing the shadows of being abandoned by his father.

The UW rowing team achieves a stunning victory at the Pacific Coast Regatta, shocking spectators. This accomplishment lifts team spirits and boosts Joe and Joyce's relationship amid growing camaraderie.

As the prestigious Poughkeepsie Regatta approaches, Coach Al makes a bold decision to promote the junior varsity team over the varsity squad. He understands that the Eastern schools pose a significant challenge.

Joe has a tense encounter with his estranged father, Harry, who provides neither support nor compassion. This confrontation disrupts Joe's focus during practices, putting his spot on the team in jeopardy.

On race day, Coach Al devises a careful strategy for coxswain Bobby Moch, advising him to maintain a slow initial pace. This tactic is aimed at maximizing the team’s performance during the crucial final stages of the race.

The UW team faces a dire need to raise $5,000 for their Olympic aspirations. The community bands together, successfully securing the funds just in time for the team’s departure to Berlin.

The team arrives in Nazi Germany, filled with excitement yet uncertainty surrounding their Olympic journey. Challenges escalate, particularly as teammate Hume falls ill, threatening their chances at success.

During the opening ceremonies, Roger interacts with Jesse Owens, reminding him of the support from home. This moment emphasizes the athletes’ shared experiences amidst the political backdrop of the Olympics.

As the finals approach, the UW team performs brilliantly in qualifiers, but pressure mounts in anticipation of competing against the formidable German crew. Coach Al strategizes meticulously to enhance their chances.

In a riveting climax, the UW rowing team competes against Germany and Italy with Adolf Hitler watching. They achieve a stunning gold medal finish, marking a victory that resonates far beyond the water.