Chariots of Fire is a British film released in 1981. Written by Colin Welland and directed by Hugh Hudson, it is based on the true story of British athletes preparing for and competing in the 1924 Summer Olympics.
The author of Flying Scotsman (a bio of Eric Liddell) interviewed anyone she could find who knew him--athletes, classmates, fellow missionaries--and NONE of them had a bad word to say about him. Truly a man who glorified God with his life.
He was a beacon of hope and “light” in the Japanese concentration camp. Everyone bore witness to the fact that he was a “special” being. A gift to everyone.
One of my favorite lines in all of cinema. "I believe God made me for a purpose. But he also made me fast! And when I run, I feel his pleasure!" That is utterly profound theology. Praise be to God... for all his pleasures!
My Grandmother took me to see this when I was eleven. She maintained an upright unapologetic dignity as that generation could do, as dementia crept into her late 80s, through a stroke just months before her 92nd birthday, and right up to the gates of Heaven yesterday afternoon. She wanted me to love our faith,believe in myself and have pride for family. More than this, having witnessed her character against such gravity, I am humbled before her example. All glory to God.
I've read alot on RU-vid..comedic blurbs, heartfelt stories, stories of tragedy,but this was probably one of the most touching.I know what it is like to have a grandmother with that type of dignity.The memory stays with you forever and never dies
@@chrisfragomeni6744 Thanks so much, Christopher. I had forgotten I ever wrote this. Reading it again, the comment you provided and others before, swept in a much needed rush of gratitude and encouragement of better days before...and ahead. You know, she wore a fur coat and hat to the theatre that night. That was kind of done then, you know, on an "outing". And I only qualify that word for the contemporary reader. We weren't wealthy by any means. But dignity for herself and others was prioritized. You're right, the memory remains. A kind of gravity that sustains with a feeling of return. Kind of like the notion that says a desire corresponds to an actual object outside itself. Not
The music in this part of the film just makes me well up,it was on tv today & I was choking like an absolute melon!!Vangelis was a genius & this is a wonderful movie
to create a film soundtrack for a move set in the 1920's about religion and sport, using synthesizers.... and what's more, to not only make it work BUT, also to create one of the most famous soundtracks in history. Genius. Just genius.
This movie is actually crossing so many lines (runners know) that you'd never say out loud what you're thinking, or, feeling - right, so let's just convey it into a movie. ... The idea even, and of course, it totally does!
Not only that, but Jackson Scholz took time to inspire Eric, even though he was a competitor... so it's more than team spirit in this scene... it's human spirit.
This also means if I honor and respect myself then in turn I will deservedly turn out to do good. That is my interpretation only. You do the right thing and u will find inner peace. Gr8 movie
I'm an atheist and not even a big fan of organized religion, but I have tremendous admiration for Liddell in this film. He stood by his principles to the point of making a great personal sacrifice and didn't cave even when everyone tried to belittle and browbeat him into changing his mind, and I have nothing but respect for a person who knows what they believe in and are genuinely willing to stand up for it.
phemyda94 Yes , by all accounts, Eric Liddel was the genuine article. In this film, the Olympic games of 1924 are in focus. Eric Liddle was born and died in China. I believe he returned to China in 1925 to serve as a missionary. During the Japanese occupation of China, he was in prison in a large detention camp. Fellow prisoners later recalled his daily desire to encourage the other prisoners. Sadly he died in the prison camp, just before World War II ended. All of Scotland mourned…
That's because he just did'nt believe in himselg,his talent,or even in training.It was His faith in God that made all the difference.You see,there is mire than just living life but in knowing that there is God,a real being who lives in us if we let Him.
Totally understand. As a born again believer in Jesus Christ, I will say the difference. Religion is nothing but a man-made attempt to reach God. Christianity is the anti-religion, God reaching down to man.
I saw this movie as a young 10yr old. Then saw it again in college. Then saw it again as a 40yr old. Every single time I saw it, I get something new from it. Great movie.
It really becomes BETTER once you are over 40. I can not explain why. But it does. It is so pure. So well done. Some of the moments are the most amazing I have ever seen. New movies fail to make people FEEL like they uses to. This scene moves people to tears. Perfect music, editing, acting, cinematography and magic.
@Doug Bevins Wayne said nothing of the sort - your comment reveals more about yourself than anyone else. You also need to learn your history - Liddell was an amateur in the days when that meant something. He made no income from athletics, and if he had, he would have given it away. HIs vocation was on the Christian mission field.
@Doug Bevins What is the relevance to me of what you are offended by? You made a false assertion about Liddell and you imputed a quite gross motive to Wayne, with no basis whatsoever. If that's your version of a joke, tell it somewhere else.
@@michaelk9056 save your pity. I can't speak for all atheists but as for me I feel sorry for people who WASTE so much time thinking about one (or more) of the THOUSANDS of gods humanity has worshiped over time. Religion is a mental illness, much like the mind of a conspiracy theorist those that believe in a god suffer from "Compensatory Control illness.
1:53 "So where the powers comes from, to see the race to its end, from within. I believe God made me for a purpose. He also made fast. And when I run, I feel his pleasure" - great script! unique movie! Vangelis score rise this epic moment to the stars ! all the hairs of my necks stand up in this scene! absolute goosebumps !!! its so mystical!
This is God's movie for mankind. It is an epic, enigmatic and eternal movie showing when we honor God first and foremost, God will honor us. A God sent movie. The characters were destined to act in this movie and played their roles well. A movie we all need to watch over and over and over again. ❤
@@TheTicktockman321 and the other athlete to hold the world record in the mens 400m now who also won it from the outside lane is also a christian- Wayde van Nierkerk
Not only that, but his world record stood for over a decade, afterwards... an amazing run. Eric was inspired by the note that his competitor Jackson Scholz took time to give him.
I rediscover my purpose. I ran a business and this clipped reminded me, I work for His pleasure. I ran my business for God's pleasure. Lived my life for God's pleasure.
I briefly worked with a doctor who lived in China with his parents, American missionaries, and was interred in the same camp as Mr Liddell. He described him as being just incredible. Always helping, keeping up spirits, and being a good person.
Eric Liddell, Scotland's most famous athlete, served his Christian Faith & students in China where he was born and died at age 43. After winning in the Olympics, he immediately returned to China. He was much loved and a kind, selfless man.
RIP Eric Liddell (January 16, 1902 - February 21, 1945), aged 43 RIP Harold Abrahams (December 15, 1899 - January 14, 1978), aged 78 RIP Ian Charleson (August 11, 1949 - January 6, 1990), aged 40 RIP Ben Cross (December 16, 1947 - August 18, 2020), aged 72 RIP Brad Davis (November 6, 1949 - September 8, 1991), aged 41 RIP Sir Ian Holm (September 12, 1931 - June 19, 2020), aged 88 You will always be remembered as legends.
He was on the outside lane… Staggered ahead of everyone. He said that to the guy near the very back on one of the two inside lanes lol. Nothing about Liddell’s winning character would suggest he would taunt another. Way too classy. Too humble. Too grateful.
This film has a lot to say about the nature of ambition and the desire to win. Miles more intelligent than the Oscar winners of today, it became so famous people ended up ignoring it. Not perfect by any means but unlike anything else, it mustn't be forgotten.
"So where does the power come from to see the race to its end? From within." - Eric Liddell. This quote has helped me so many times overcome challenges that seemed insurmountable at first. Very inspiring.
That guy at the end holding back tears of pride gets me everytime. This movie reminds me of how strong and content Liddle is in his faith. It reminds me of my dad. His favorite saying for some years now is, the best days of my life are still ahead. He's 80 years old and I have no doubt that these will be his last words on this earth.
The most touching part of this clip is when he sees his sister in the stands...the moment she finally understands why Liddle trained so hard... ignored some church duties to just run and feel the pleasure of God.
If I remember right, they weren't 'supposed' to be there. So that scene goes both ways -- Eric also sees that they travelled to Paris to support him, even though they didn't understand.
So many people get upset because this great movie won the academy awards when it is one of the greatest movies of the last 35 years. Yes raiders was a good movie but the screenplay and the story was expertly told. It is my top ten off all time
I believe that we all missed the point,God, a higher being was the point to the race, and behind to the incredible music, it is either in our mind and heart or its not, I just got it after so many years. Cannot believe that it has taken me 35 years to "get" and understand but I do.
I am watching this and see that your comment is about the most recent. I, too, was a 400 meter runner at a national level. I am writing a book on God and running as the time I felt closest to God was when I was running. God bless you and all athletes that give glory to God in all things-even sport. Yes, sport.
This is the greatest sports movie of all time, and a timeless movie moment.. "Eric, you can praise God by peeling a spud, if you peel it to perfection... Run in God's Name, and let the world stand back in wonder"...
I love that the film takes great pains to show Abrahams congratulating Liddell (this clip - 3:25) and Liddell congratulating Abrahams (earlier). Although rivals, they had great respect and admiration for each other.
It was such a beautiful film, and beautiful story. Back in the days of the movie there was no internet. I researched Eric Liddel the only way we had ever known. He was a truly great man who lived and died for his courage working for God. All I knew as he died in China during his missionary work. Now, with the internet, I found sources for details. In 1941 his wife and children left China because of danger from hostilities from the Japanese. Eric stayed to work in a remote mission, helping the poor. In 1943 he was placed in an internment camp. He died in February 1945, five months before liberation. He had an inoperable brain tumor, but it’s thought overwork and malnutrition added to the time of his death. Indeed, his life honored God.
What an absolutely wonderful film this is and absolutely deserved its Oscars. The music was brilliant, composed by Vangelis, who passed away 3 days ago on 17 May 2022. He deserves to be remembered for his inspirational, moving , outstanding music for the film, one of the most worthy Oscar winners ever. This is a story of a past time, now sadly no more, when drug cheating did not take place and before money, greed and personal gratification became motives for so many sportsman and sports organizers today (you only have to look at the thankfully rejected European Super League to see what I mean) . Who today would sacrifice making lots of money and glory because racing on a Sunday happened to be against their religious convictions and conscience? It is now almost a century since Harold Abrahams and Eric Liddell won their gold medals in Paris in 1924 and of course the Paris Games will take place on the centenary of those earlier games. Thanks to the film, their achievements will not be forgotten. Neither will the actors who played them and Vangelis.
If you ever experience God's pleasure, you would understand this statement. It is very addicting. You will want to do all you can to feel it again. Amazing...
The best scene in the entire movie, a movie filled with classic scenes. The best example of honoring Almighty God and true sportsmanship I've ever seen.
Such a warm, beautiful film. I miss these types of movies where the protagonist(s) were genuinely kind, decent human beings who wanted to do their best did so without wrecking the rest of humanity. This lovely movie was based on true events - yet Eric Liddell was a lot like Lou Gehrig - as wonderful as history portrayed him. Like Gehrig, he didn’t live long (leading to the old ages question: because they are such extraordinary people, does God want them back so young?) but it was so wonderful learning about him & his teammates.
Just curious, have you read any biographies on Eric Liddell? The second half of his life is even more inspiring, albeit tragic. I highly recommend "For the Glory" by Duncan Hamilton, "Pure Gold" by David McCasland, and "God's Joyful Runner" by Russell Ramsey if you haven't already read those. You may have already. You are right...sadly both Eric and Lou Gehrig died young from terminal illnesses.
Psalm 147: 10His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior; 11the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
There are few times when we feel the joy of our God and when we do we never ever experience anything so wonderful. When you hear His voice or feel His hand, you're never the same. There is a power in belief in the Eternal God that you can only experience and never understand.
Such a powerful and inspirational film. I was eleven years old when I watched it and it brought a tear to my eye, I totally got it. I was a competitive swimmer at the time and it was this film that got me winning. It doesn't matter what sport you're into, all you need is grit and determination and you'll get there.
Charleson does not compare to Liddell in bravery. Sorry, but that's a false equivalence. I don't doubt Ian showed bravery in many ways, but Liddell was exceptional.
@@mikem9001 Each man ran his own race. Liddell inspired other prisoners in China even while dying of a brain tumor. Ian inspired others with a great Hamlet only a few weeks before dying of AIDS. Personally, I'll take Shakespeare over religion any time, but as Liddell/Charleson says, it's not about competition--it's about running your own best race to the end.
The movie is known as a masterpiece... and it's full of powerful themes, like pursuit of excellence, honor, finding your calling in life, etc. If you're weeping, it's resonating at a spiritual level, and I think that means this movie is made for you -- you should take what you can from it and apply it to your life, as best as you are able. I think that people should be mildly obsessed with things that resonate with them. Think about it. Study it. Write about it. Live it.
@@hxhdfjifzirstc894 I COMPLETELY agree with you. And I LOVE your wording. “People should be mildly obsessed with things that resonate with them.” 😂 It is a BRILLIANT statement, it is an amusing statement, and it is TRUE statement. WELL said 👏🏼
He was on the outside lane… Staggered ahead of everyone. He said that to the guy near the very back on the inside lane lol. Nothing about Liddell’s winning character would suggest he would taunt another. Way too classy. Too humble. Too grateful.
This movie is so perfectly crafted, down to the tiniest details--never before noticed the parallel between Liddell holding the Bible quotation from Scholz, representing Liddell's inspiring effect on others, vs. Abrams crushing his program in awe and competitiveness when Liddell wins the French race after being knocked down. Sums up the differences in their personalities and purposes.
Yes, this movie truly is a perfect masterpiece, down to the last details, including one of the best soundtracks ever made. Did you notice that Eric is inspired by the verse that a *competitor took time to give him? Jackson Scholz, AKA 'The New York Thunderbolt'... lived long enough to see the movie.
"and when I run, I can feel His pleasure." Awesome line. Those of us with faith feel that all good things, all gifts come from G-d. When I use the skills that He's given me it's transcendant, like a prayer. There's more than one way to pray.
You need to see the GEORGE FOREMAN film- the real reason GEORGE regained title at 45 was to fund his Christian youth center- he trusted wrong people to handle the money; also, Maverick TOP GUN captures spirit ROCKY II, and to my shock, CREED I and II;
I can't help but feel an amazing gratitude to God for allowing us the power to inspire each other and entice to believe that we can all live at a higher, more glorious, more dignified, more principled, more self denying and benevolent for plane. Any act you do, any of you, any of us, that stands for eternal and unchanging principles reconfirms to all of us that we are all equal to live under the same dignity and opportunity for joy and fulfillment circumscribed by those principles and their unalterable harvests.
You came to see a race today. To see someone win. It happened to be me. But I want you to do more than just watch a race. I want you to take part in it. I want to compare faith to running in a race. It's hard. It requires concentration of will, energy of soul. You experience elation when the winner breaks the tape - especially if you've got a bet on it. But how long does that last? You go home. Maybe your dinner's burnt. Maybe you haven't got a job. So who am I to say, "Believe, have faith," in the face of life's realities? I would like to give you something more permanent, but I can only point the way. I have no formula for winning the race. Everyone runs in her own way, or his own way. And where does the power come from, to see the race to its end? From within. Jesus said, "Behold, the Kingdom of God is within you. If with all your hearts, you truly seek me, you shall ever surely find me." If you commit yourself to the love of Christ, then that is how you run a straight race. ERIC LIDDELL
@@hanphilnoffz8827 Many of the fast black people today also give glory to God like Liddell did. They understand where he was coming from. Also, even back then there were fast black people at the Olympics: Constantin Henriquez from Haiti won gold in 1900 with the French rugby team - he played wing so he had speed and impact; George Poage (USA) won two bronze medals in hurdling in 1904. John Taylor (USA) won gold for 4 x 400m relay in 1908. Dehart Hubbard (USA) won gold in long jump at this Olympics 1924 (okay, not fast, but still pretty impressive).
@@mikem9001 "I can do all things through THE WORD which strengthens me." "This is the center of it all. My WORD! In this room I will open up My Word with My people who will come in to discover what the abundant life I purchased for them at Calvary looks like." One day Jesus told his disciples a story to show that they should always pray and never give up. - Luke 18:1 "Can two walk together, except they be agreed?" - Amos 3:3 Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad-for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world. - Peter 4:12 "This is the center of it all. My WORD! In this room I will open up My Word with My people who will come in to discover what the abundant life I purchased for them at Calvary looks like."
What an iconic fantastic and triumphant scene. One of the greatest ever and this has also to be one of my favourite themes by Vangelis. Eric’s theme is powerful and triumphent capturing his running in points if the film and when he finished. What an also an amazing piece if music and one if the greatest scores from one if the greatest musical maestro’s of all time. RIP Envangelos Odysseas Papathanassiou there will never be another maestro to match your capabilities and beyond absolute beautiful music.
This movie inspired me to begin running 3 decades ago, but much more than that - the pure joy of sprinting, to disengage and allow the body to become something more. '"Where does the power come from, to see the race to it's end? From within."
True it allows you to disengage, but it also does more than that - that power from within applies to all aspects in life. You are bang on. It separates the mind from the heart, dissolves the ego and makes you enjoy the moment. Absolutely brilliant movie, and I admire the heck out of these athletes.
Yes Therefore the Lord, the God of Israel, declares: ‘I promised that members of your family would minister before me forever.’ But now the Lord declares: ‘Far be it from me! Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained.
The most striking image in this entire clip is that 2 seconds when he is about to win they show Abrahams face, stoic - even though he won the 100 mts gold, he seems to look at Eric in disbelief b/c Eric was powered by spirit of our Creator from within. When that is the case whether you win or lose you are always doing the right thing. It seems to me that Abrahams could win 5 gold medals but never achieve that illusive inner peace, where as Eric was content doing his best no matter what the result.
The shot of Ben Cross in that moment is taken from earlier in the film after Abrahams lost to Liddell (note the lightly coloured jacket in contrast to the Olympic blazer seen while holding Liddell aloft). Nobody knows why it was shoe-horned in at that moment. It's a clumsy and ill-judged shot, and the only wrong note in the film.
with due respect you are missing the entire point. the fact that they cut that after the fact from the earlier race and added it in, they wanted to show the look on his face at how Lidell wins the race through sheer belief and faith, he look stunned, envious etc. The route he took vs the one Lidell took is why he has the look on his face.
+Tauzer Dalal Arrant nonsense. You already revealed in your first comment that you were unaware that the shot was from earlier in the film. As for your comment about faith and belief... again: unsubstantiated nonsense. Abrahams is a devout Jew who is driven by his defiance of anti-Semitism, as he sees it, so he's hardly going to find solace, comfort, and inspiration in the faith of a Christian who runs for God. Um... You have actually seen the film, haven't you? I'm beginning to wonder.
This always makes me think of my father. He loved to talk about running and taught me everything I know. My dad made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run, I feel his pleasure.
He is my Savior I would have killed myself long time ago but Accepting Jesus Christ radically changed me. Yes life is difficult and no I'm Definitely not perfect But He is the reason I keep on
Eric Liddell was an inspirational man and the courtesy with which he treated his fellow competitors is beautifully portrayed. If you had never known anything about him, this film would inspire you to learn more, and Ian Charleson portrayed him superbly. I've watched the film countless times and always end up sobbing.
I loved the book about him; "Eric Liddell- Men of Faith" Never seen the film so now I want to!! :) God bless you Mr. Liddell someday I will shake your hand and thank you for what you have done!!
Probably the most powerful scene in movie history. But one things that would've made this even more so would've been if they had "Liddell" race with that note in his hand the whole time. Like he was never going to let go of the message and promise by our Lord, "He that honors me, I will Honor." But this is so inspiring and brings tears to my eyes every time I watch it.
“He’s got something to prove, something personal, something guys like coach will never understand in a million years.” A great line from Jackson Schulz.
