Chariots of Fire

Chariots of Fire is a 1981 British historical drama film directed by Hugh Hudson. The film is based on the true story of two British athletes in the 1924 Olympics: Eric Liddell, a devout Scottish Christian who runs for the glory of God, and Harold Abrahams, an English Jew who runs to overcome prejudice.

Plot

The film opens with the funeral of Harold Abrahams in 1978. It then flashes back to the early 1920s, where Abrahams is a student at Cambridge University. He is determined to overcome the anti-Semitism he faces and prove himself through his athletic prowess. Meanwhile, Eric Liddell, a devout Christian, sees running as a way to glorify God.

Both athletes face personal and professional challenges. Abrahams hires a professional coach, Sam Mussabini, to improve his performance, which causes controversy at Cambridge. Liddell, on the other hand, faces a moral dilemma when he learns that the heats for his event, the 100 meters, are scheduled on a Sunday, which conflicts with his religious beliefs.

Cast

• Ben Cross as Harold Abrahams
• Ian Charleson as Eric Liddell
• Nigel Havers as Lord Andrew Lindsay
• Cheryl Campbell as Jennie Liddell
• Alice Krige as Sybil Gordon
• Ian Holm as Sam Mussabini

Production

The screenplay was written by Colin Welland, and the film was produced by David Puttnam. The iconic musical score was composed by Vangelis, whose electronic theme tune became synonymous with the film.

Reception

Chariots of Fire was a critical and commercial success. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and received nominations for three others. The film is often praised for its inspirational story and memorable soundtrack.

Legacy

The film has left a lasting impact on popular culture and is frequently referenced in various media. The theme music by Vangelis is often used in sporting contexts and has become an anthem for triumph and perseverance.

See also

• 1924 Summer Olympics
• Eric Liddell
• Harold Abrahams
• Vangelis