Chariots of Fire
Chariots of Fire
Directed by:
Hugh HudsonScreenplay:
Colin WellandCinematography:
David WatkinComposer:
VangelisCast:
Ben Cross, Ian Charleson, Nicholas Farrell, Nigel Havers, Daniel Gerroll, Ian Holm, John Gielgud, Lindsay Anderson, Nigel Davenport, Cheryl Campbell (more)Plots(1)
Hugh Hudson directs this nostalgic tribute to Cambridge University athletes Harold Abrahams and Eric Liddell, recounting the events of the 1924 Olympics. Abrahams (Ben Cross) is a Jew who experiences racial prejudice at Cambridge, while Liddell (Ian Charleson) is a Scot who runs for the glory of God. The two become rivals on the track, and both are chosen to represent Britain at the Paris Olympics. However, a problem arises when Lidell learns that he is expected to compete on the Sabbath; something that goes directly against his religious beliefs. (20th Century Fox Home Entertainment)
(more)Reviews (3)
A mildly old-fashioned, well-made and told film about the power of the human spirit and sport as a symbol of humanity, solidarity, friendship, and homage to God. The content has depth, that can't be denied, it’s narrated in an old-fashioned way, but it has very little in common with reality.
()
Although I have once again searched diligently and patiently, for the umpteenth time I have failed to find the reason the academics argued for when choosing this film as an Oscar winner. I'm not saying that Chariots of Fire is an ordinary or mediocre film, but in its field of sports dramas about the road to the top, it's neither unique nor surprising. For me, unfortunately, it was a rather boring and routine experience, whose monotony is occasionally broken only by Vangelis' amazing music (here the Oscar is well deserved) and Ian Holm's performance. If the film were made today, Usain Bolt in the lead role would certainly be a considerable boost :-) 60%
()
I won't remember anything else from this movie but the music and the beautifully slowed-down shots of running human bodies, but even if I were to only remember that, the movie was worth it. The musical and visual aspects are so well balanced here, I simply can't help it - I enjoyed the film and it entertained me to watch and listen to it. Vangelis is a synthesizer genius.
()