Chariots of Fire (1981) [Blu-ray]
Drama | History | Sport

A cinematic masterpiece that earned four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Chariots of Fire triumphs once more in beautiful hi-def Blu-ray for the first time! Ian Charleson and Ben Cross star in this widely celebrated, inspiring true story of two British runners competing in the 1924 Olympic Games. Now in its full glory, this stunning new Blu-ray edition includes a premium 36 page book filled with behind-the-scenes photos, trivia, production history and more. Also included is a bonus CD of 4 songs from the Oscar winning soundtrack by composer Vangelis, including gamed #1 hit "Titles" as well as "Abraham's Theme," "Eric's Theme" and "Jerusalem."

User Comment: Julie-30 from Florida, USA, 26 January 2003 • I beg to differ with several previous reviewers. This film is neither bland nor is it solely about professionalism vs. amateurism.

This film is about what drives people to do what they do. Eric Liddell (Ian Charleson) runs for the glory of God, whereas Harold Abrahams (Ben Cross) runs to prove his worth to a society that was anti-Semitic. Even though they run for different reasons, their drive and determination spur them on. They stand up for what they believe in and refuse to sacrifice their principles because it is the easy way out.

The supporting cast is also extraordinary, with Nigel Havers, Nicholas Farrell, Ian Holm and Sir John Gielgud all making important contributions to the final product.

There is absolutely nothing unnecessary in this film. The writing, the direction, the acting, the dialogue are all outstanding. And then there's that haunting score.

Once again, this is truly an outstanding film. One with universal themes that transcend time and place.

Summary: Truly an outstanding film.

User Comment: gachronicled from USA, 18 February 2001 • I happened to be flipping channels today and saw this was on. Since it had been several years since I last saw it I clicked it on, but didn't mean to stay. As it happened, I found this film to be just as gripping now as it was before. My own kids started watching it, too, and enjoyed it - which was even more satisfying for me considering the kind of current junk they're used to. No, this is not an action-packed thriller, nor are there juicy love scenes between Abrahams and his actress girlfriend. There is no "colorful" language to speak of; no politically correct agenda underlying its tale of a Cambridge Jew and Scottish Christian.

This is a story about what drives people internally - what pushes them to excel or at least to make the attempt to do so. It is a story about personal and societal values, loyalty, faith, desire to be accepted in society and healthy competition without the utter selfishness that characterizes so much of the athletic endeavors of our day. Certainly the characters are not alike in their motivation, but the end result is the same as far as their accomplishments.

My early adolescent son (whose favorite movies are all of the Star Wars movies and The Matrix) couldn't stop asking questions throughout the movie he was so hooked. It was a great educational opportunity as well as entertainment. If you've never seen this film or it's been a long time, I recommend it unabashedly, regardless of the labels many have tried to give it for being slow-paced or causing boredom. In addition to the great story - based on real people and events - the photography and the music are fabulous and moving. It's no mistake that this movie has been spoofed and otherwise stolen from in the last twenty years - it's an unforgettable movie and in my opinion its bashers are those who hate Oscar winners on principle or who don't like the philosophies espoused by its protagonists.

Summary: This is one of the Oscar best pictures that actually deserved the honor.

[CSW] -3.5- I can't believe it took me 31 years to finally see this film. I can honestly say that I appreciated it more now than I believe that I would have when it came out. Beautifully shot and magnificent scenery, this story of fighting bigotry and anti-Semitism and the value of true friendship was deserving of its acclaim and awards. From a sports point of view it is interesting to see the changes in the business from the acumen of the athletes and the advances in venues and equipment. There is something to be said about pure athleticism and not in the hype, chemicals, and state of the art training we have today. Then it was natural ability and hard work solely. Just something to ponder, I suppose. It has beautiful cinematography, awesome music, and a magnificent story almost incredible… except that it all did happen, in the 1924 Olympics. Do not miss seeing this movie at least once.
[V4.5-A4.5] MPEG-4 AVC - No D-Box.

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