Chariots of Fire (1981)

Chariots of Fire (1981)
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Based on a true story, Chariots of Fire is the internationally acclaimed Oscar-winning drama of two very different men who compete as runners in the 1924 Paris Olympics. Eric Liddell (Ian Charleson), a serious Christian Scotsman, believes that he has to succeed as a testament to his undying religious faith. Harold Abrahams (Ben Cross), is a Jewish Englishman who wants desperately to be accepted and prove to the world that Jews are not inferior. The film crosscuts between each man's life as he trains for the competition, fueled by these very different desires. As compelling as the racing scenes are, it's really the depth of the two main characters that touches the viewer, as they forcefully drive home the theme that victory attained through devotion, commitment, integrity, and sacrifice is the most admirable feat that one can achieve. (Ian Holm was nominated for an Oscar as Best Supporting Actor in his role as Abrahams' coach), and this powerful film ended up with four Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, Best Costume Design, and Best Original Score. ~ Don Kaye, Rovi

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Starring:
Ben CrossIan Charleson, (more)
Director(s):
Hugh Hudson
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
PG
Format(s):
DVD  |  Blu-ray  | Digital SD
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Synopsis of Chariots of Fire

Based on a true story, Chariots of Fire is the internationally acclaimed Oscar-winning drama of two very different men who compete as runners in the 1924 Paris Olympics. Eric Liddell (Ian Charleson), a serious Christian Scotsman, believes that he has to succeed as a testament to his undying religious faith. Harold Abrahams (Ben Cross), is a Jewish Englishman who wants desperately to be accepted and prove to the world that Jews are not inferior. The film crosscuts between each man's life as he trains for the competition, fueled by these very different desires. As compelling as the racing scenes are, it's really the depth of the two main characters that touches the viewer, as they forcefully drive home the theme that victory attained through devotion, commitment, integrity, and sacrifice is the most admirable feat that one can achieve. (Ian Holm was nominated for an Oscar as Best Supporting Actor in his role as Abrahams' coach), and this powerful film ended up with four Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, Best Costume Design, and Best Original Score. ~ Don Kaye, Rovi

Theatrical Feature Running Time:
124 mins

Complete Cast of Chariots of Fire


Director(s):
Hugh Hudson
Writer(s):
Colin Welland
Producer(s):
David Puttnam
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
PG(Suitable for Children)
Chariots of Fire Awards:
  • 1981 - British Academy of Film and Television Arts - Best Picture
  • 1981 - British Academy of Film and Television Arts - Best Supporting Actor
  • 1981 - British Academy of Film and Television Arts - Best Costume Design
  • 1981 - Cannes Film Festival - Best Supporting Actor
  • 1981 - Golden Globe - Best Foreign Film
  • 1981 - Hollywood Foreign Press Association - Best Foreign Film
  • 1981 - National Board of Review - Best Picture
  • 1981 - New York Film Critics Circle - Best Cinematography
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    Member Reviews
     
    Steve B.

    This film is a little slow in getting started and for the action/adventure nut...you are likely going to be bored silly. However, the lives of these two great runners are superbly compared and contrasted in their search for meaning of purpose and life. Eric Liddell, who will ultimately become a Christian missionary to China, struggles with his priorities, while Harold Abrahams (A secular Jew) struggles for his life purpose. This film is wonderfully artistic and deserved the Academy Award for best film. However, don't think James Bond or the terminator will hop out at any moment. Two thumbs up, but just know what you are getting into.

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    Gary F.

    Great job! Worth the watch!

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    Thom O.

    This film inspired a generation of people to take up running. Vangelis's theme is still one of the great soundtracks of all time. This movie needs to be seen by the whole family.

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