Title: Chariots of Fire (1981; PG)
Director: Hugh Hudson
Major Themes: History, Eric Liddell, Running
Synopsis: The story of Harold Abrahams and Eric Liddell, runners who competed in the 1924 Olympics.
Years ago, I remember going to an old stone church in our little village and watching Chariots of Fire on their big projector screen in the fellowship hall attached to the church. My parents never took us to movies—we’d watch the rare one at home, but that was one of the first times I remember watching one in a public setting. I remember being impressed by the story—even though it was before I got new glasses, so I got the two main characters confused almost the entire way through because I couldn’t see well! Recently, when I was ordering a movie for our family to watch, I saw the seller had this one for a decent price as well, and we ended up watching it as a family a few weeks ago. What an excellent story—even better than I remembered!
Harold Abrahams, a student and later graduate from Cambridge University, quickly proved his prowess at sprinting. Though he wasn’t the fastest runner ever, he was determined to prove himself—and prove that Jews still had a place in the world of the 1920s. Eric Liddell, on the other hand, a son of missionaries to China, loved running for the sheer thrill of running—and had the desire to use his gifts to point others to Christ. Abrahams got himself the best running trainer he could find, and eventually, both he and Liddell ended up at the 1924 Olympics. On the way to the Olympics, however, Liddell realized that the heats for the 100-meter race, the race he was best suited for, were to take place on a Sunday—and he could not justify going against his Lord and his convictions even for something like a sprint. Though both ended up competing in the Olympics that year, the aftermath of each man’s choices is an intriguing study.
I really appreciated Chariots of Fire! Although it didn’t feel like an overly “Christian” movie—it felt like there was almost more focus on Harold Abrahams than Eric Liddell—this story packs a powerful punch. After we finished watching it as a family, we sat around and discussed the results of these men’s races—and how their different motivations contributed to their reactions to the races themselves and how it impacted those looking on, as well. It made for quite an interesting discussion!
Historically speaking, this movie seems to be fairly accurate. I’ve come across one or two biographies of Liddell’s life, and have also done a little research on my own, and I was encouraged to see that the major events portrayed in this movie seem to line up with history. One part that particularly intrigued me was Liddell’s relationship with his sister. The tension between doing mission work and being home in Scotland was palpable at times, but I loved that no matter what, Liddell—and his family—were focused on glorifying Christ and encouraging others toward Him.
If you enjoy watching movies based on real people and events, this could be an excellent choice. It’s engaging, entertaining, and ultimately a challenging story of what happens when we make God our highest priority.
WARNING: I didn’t get times for this movie, sorry! “Bloody” and “hell” are used occasionally. Also occasionally, characters are shown drinking and/or smoking, and there is one scene where characters are talking and the woman has a fairly low neckline. There are also several kisses, often somewhat hidden behind the brim of a hat.
Appropriate ages:
Ages 10 – 12, 12 – 15, 15 and Above, Adults, Family Friendly
Links to buy this movie:
Amazon: Prime Video | DVD | Blu-Ray
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