With Wings on their Heels and Hope in their Hearts

Starring: Ben Cross, Ian Charleson, Nicholas Farrell, Nigel Havers, Daniel Gerroll, Ian Holm, John Gielgud, Lindsay Anderson, Nigel Davenport, Cheryl Campbell, Alice Krige

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ - good

"I believe God made me for a purpose - but He also made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure." - Eric Lindell

Why watch this? It is a great film about Britain and running.

Plot Summary: Based on the true story of two British Olympic runners, this story follows their journeys as they prepare for the 1924 Paris Olympics. Harold Abrahams, a Jewish athlete, battles against anti-semitism and class prejudice, using running as a means to overcome these obstacles. Eric Liddell, a devout Scottish Christian, runs to glorify God and faces conflict when his beliefs clash with the Olympic schedule.

Dad's Preview: This exceptional sports drama captures the competitive spirit like few films. At its center are two British athletes, one Jewish, the other Christian, who must face their own challenges just to compete. The cast is full of England's top acting talent, and I really enjoyed Ian Holm's portrayal as the lads' running coach Sam Mussabini. His Oscar-nominated performance stands out. This film is certainly for sports fans, but the great soundtrack by Vangelis elevates it to another level. (I will never forget the theme played as runners glide along the beach in slow motion.)