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Chariots of Fire (1981) Reviews

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 Cross, Ian Charleson, (more)
Director(s):
Hugh Hudson
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
PG
Format(s):
DVD  |  Blu-ray  | Digital SD
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Average Ratings

(36 member reviews)  

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.

Yes   |   No


Gary F.

Great job! Worth the watch!

Yes   |   No


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.

Yes   |   No


GLENN P.

good story line. lacked the drama of todays films but was flooded with substance. its not going to keep you on the edge of your seat but its a movie about real people and a real time period so the story becomes a great drama.

Yes   |   No


Coleen F.

Excellent inspirational movie

Yes   |   No


Kim M.

Our family thoroughly enjoyed the plot; the message of devotion to God vs. personal vendetta-type commitment. The cinematography was superb as was the authentic costuming and sets and the actors' performances. Even my 14 yr. old enjoyed it. If you like movies with a message that make you think, you'll love this film! Kim M.

Yes   |   No


Dennis W.

Awesome classic...very inspiring

Yes   |   No


Robyn S.

This movie is a classic and won the oscar for Best Picture in 1981. The acting is well done, and it will keep your attention.

Yes   |   No


Yvonne W.

I really wanted to like this movie, and I'm sure the content was great, but I couldn't stay awake long enough to really watch it. I remember being a kid and really wanting to watch it because I loved the soundtrack when it came on the radio. As an adult, I just couldn't get into it. I tried watching it a couple of times, too.

Yes   |   No


Dale L.

This movie was a powerful motivator for me as a 19 year old world-class cycling contender. The authenticity of the fierce nature of competition is second to none but the movie succeeds because of the drama propelled by superb acting, writing and directing. Strong themes; the human struggle to find purpose, to rise above prejudice and mediocrity, are tempered with a beautiful love story and Ian Holm as an aging professional trainer in an amateur's world lends technical credibility to the film's historical fabric. Beautiful costumes, gut-wrenching slo-mo sequences and that unforgettable soundtrack top off a masterpiece.

Yes   |   No


 
 
 

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Member Reviews
Read all (36)
 
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.

Yes   |   No

 
Gary F.

Great job! Worth the watch!

Yes   |   No

 
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.

Yes   |   No

 
Read All 36 Reviews
 

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