Review of Chariots of Fire (1981) by Bryan K — 26 Jul 2012

Finally, Warner Bros. gave us the ultimate (so far) edition of â~Chariots of Fireâ(TM) release it deserved. This film is amazing from start to finish. It won best picture at the Oscars in 1981 among others. Even if you havenâ(TM)t seen the film, Iâ(TM)m sure you have seen the opening title sequence with the runners sprinting along the beach to that iconic score by Vangelis. After watching this again, I canâ(TM)t seem to get that amazing score out of my head. I keep whistling it. This bluray release is top notch all the way through. Great extras, amazing audio/video, and terrific film to round it all out. Highly recommended.

â~Chariots of Fireâ(TM) follows two competitive runners as they make their way to the 1924 Olympic games. There is Harold Abrams (Ben Cross) who is a Jewish man and is the first student to finish the infamous Trinity Great Court Run at Cambridge University. The run consists of lapping the giant courtyard in the time it takes the bell tower to strike 12. However, Abrahams is ridiculed and abused for being Jewish. Then there is Eric Liddell (Ian Charleson) who is on par with Abrahams running ability. Immediately, itâ(TM)s obvious these two guys rival one another in running. Liddell constantly tries to convince his extremist religious family that competing in running for the Olympic games is pure and virtuous. While Abrahams has hired a professional trainer and is trying to keep his romantic relationship on the up and up, Liddell is having problems persuading his sister that his love for his religion is not soured by running. Despite their trials and tribulations from their peers, family, and strangers, the two make it to the Olympics. Even though this film came out in 1981 and takes place in the 20s, it feels timeless. Director Hugh Hudson just knocked this whole production out of the park. Itâ(TM)s a beautiful portrayal of overcoming hate, faith, and sacrifice. The race sequences will literally take your breath away. A truly remarkable film.

â~Chariots of Fireâ(TM) is truly modern classic. Itâ(TM)s iconic, beautiful and remarkable. The acting is superb, and the direction is one-of-a-kind. The video and audio presentations are top notch, and the extras are definitely worth watching. I consider this a must own bluray for anyone and with its 38 booklet and original soundtrack included with the bluray, I give this a very high recommendation. Definitely pick this one up. Youâ(TM)ll be glad you did.

-Bryan Kluger.