Reviews
Chariots of Fire (1981)
Finding one's Spirit within
Chariots is a wonderful movie that moves the viewer emotionally on multiple levels. Superficially, the viewer is grabbed by the inter/intra-instituitional and Olympic racing contests which pique the viewer's competative spirit with the wonderment of who will win. But, like others who have commented, I most enjoy the spiritual uplifting level that tells the truth of our need to become more than we are in ourselves - to find that spirit within that helps us achieve what we cannot on our own.
Once in a while a movie captures this essence of God's great gift to us, the Spirit within. While striving to live our lives on our own terms, to those who will listen, God finds a way to pull our attention to the greater glory of service to Him by serving others. Protagonists Liddell and Abrahams each demonstrate this truth, albeit differently.
Liddell has grown up knowing this and, in seeking to race, is only conflicted by Jenny's concern that his racing will pull them away from the greater missionary journey they both know lies in front of them. I feel Eric's answer to her for this purpose hits precisely God's relationship to us. He wishes to lift us up so that we may lift others up to the knowledge of Him.
Perhaps the most beautiful and poignant scene comes on Sunday in Paris as
the Olympics continue while Eric Liddell speaks his heart from the a pulpit. Quite a telling scene about one's priorities.
The D.I. (1957)
Positive contrast of movie to today's fare
Jack Webb's portrayal of the Marine drill instructor shaping new recruits in basic training requires no interpretation. Straight forward, direct, up front, are all applicable to this classic. In a time when parsing the statements of our leaders is a necessity in order to understand what they are saying, this movie that plays no games with our language or our moral fiber. Right and wrong are clear and easily defined. If you like clear, well understood dialog in a disciplined military setting, this movie should suit you.
The Cowboys (1972)
Absolutely top notch performance by John Wayne and musical score by John Williams
The maturing of John Wayne's western performances is exquisitely demonstrated in this film. The plot, the music, and the performances ought to have given it a best picture nomination at the Academy Awards. It remains one of my top ten films of all time.