superb

Rating: 10/10 (25 October 2003)

I remember when I first saw this movie in a theatre(1981) that upon the start of closing credits there was an absolute hush and then the audience of movie goers applauded. It has happened to me only a couple of times over the years and it leaves quite an impression. I love this movie for so many reasons. It is a perfectly preserved snapshot of a moment in time. The cinematography and set design as well as costumes are absolutely stunning. The personal struggles of two very different men who come together on one very important day is both moving and engrossing. I do not have to be religious or athletic to enjoy this film and am not. It's theme of the pursuit of an elusive personal goal for very personal and to those around them,sometimes obtuse reasons is what made this movie for me. Eric Charleson is fantastic as Eric Liddell - integrity and charm - a wonderful combination. Ben Cross as Harold Abrahams is excellent, though difficult to like as the driven and emotionally prickly jewish runner with a bone to pick. As I said, this is a wonderful snap of a moment in time. Like a fly in amber, this age, with it's naivete and emphasis on integrity,is preserved wonderfully by Hugh Hudson. Highly recommended.