Engrossing and humbling

Rating: Null/10 (19 May 1999)

'tis been said that this movie is loved or hated, no middle ground.
I believe I know why.
It touches the most fundamental instincts and feelings in all of us.
The question it compels us to ask is, "Do I have a piece of greatness to offer to the world"?
Those of us who would answer yes, whether we believe is achievable or not, would love this movie, because it epitomizes the potential of our dreams, not just in running, but in any walk of life.
Those of us who would answer no, would hate this movie, because it highlights our acceptance of mediocrity, and of surrendered dreams.
Also, this movie touches those who have succeeded also.
It shows that there are two ways to succeed, the one not shown in the movie, and the one shown.
The one not shown is the one that motivates most truly successful people today. win at any cost, in sports, business, etc. and the consequences be damned.
The way to succeed shown in Chariots of Fire is probably naive by today's standards, but nonetheless noble and uplifting.
It tells us that success achieved through dedication, commitment, honesty and sacrifice is the noblest achievement a person can attain, and provides examples for others to emulate.
Liddell and Abrahams are not examples for runners, they are examples for people, true heroes of the spirit, not sport.
An unforgettable phrase, a torch to some and a knife to others,
" So where does the power to succeed come from?... It comes from within"
Those of us who have it, love it, those of us who do not have it, hate it.
If I live to be 100, I will still have my dreams stirred back to life by the message in this film