A inspirational film about an inspirational man....

Rating: 9/10 (7 August 2010)

Once in a while there is a rare jewel that emerges from the Hollywood scene; Chariots of Fire is one of these fine films.
My interest in seeing this film arose from my interest in Eric Liddell, one of the main protagonists in the story.He was a man of high character who lived to serve others and not for his own fame or prestige.
What makes this movie even more appealing is that it is based on a true story. In fact, I was able to teach English in the same city in China (Tianjin) where Eric served as a teacher before he was interned in a Japanese prison camp (there is now a plaque in front of his former residence in Tianjin).
Based on the biographies/testimonials I've read about Eric Liddell, the performance of Ian Charleson as Liddell is very accurate (he even mimics Eric's running unique running style, with his head thrown back in the air running with all his might).
However, although Liddell indeed refused to compromise his conviction regarding the Sabbath day,(as portrayed extremely well by Charleson in the film) I never came across anything that would lead me to believe that Liddell pushed his beliefs on anyone else (as shown when he "chides" the child for playing football on a Sunday near the beginning of the movie).
Even if one is not as interested in Liddell as I am, it is still an excellent film, and very inspirational. The music and visuals in the film are also extremely appealing.
Some viewers who are keen on films with fast moving plots or action may find this movie a bit slow at times. However, I would recommend Chariots of Fire to anyone who appreciates fine films with intriguing plots and characters.
Overall an excellent film: 9/10