Chariots of Fire

I won't remember anything from that film except the music and those beautifully slowed-down shots of the running human body, but even if I only remember that, the film was worth it. The musical and visual aspects are so balanced here that I simply can't feel otherwise - I enjoyed the film and had fun watching and listening to it. Vangelis is a synth genius. (26/11/2015)

A mildly old-fashioned, well-made and told film about the power of the human spirit and sport as a symbol of humanity, solidarity, friendship, and homage to God. The content has depth, that can't be denied, it’s narrated in an old-fashioned way, but it has very little in common with reality. (02/07/2005)

Although I have once again searched diligently and patiently, for the umpteenth time I have failed to find the reason the academics argued for when choosing this film as an Oscar winner. I'm not saying that Chariots of Fire is an ordinary or mediocre film, but in its field of sports dramas about the road to the top, it's neither unique nor surprising. For me, unfortunately, it was a rather boring and routine experience, whose monotony is occasionally broken only by Vangelis' amazing music (here the Oscar is well deserved) and Ian Holm's performance. If the film were made today, Usain Bolt in the lead role would certainly be a considerable boost :-) 60% (04/08/2013)