I watched "Chariots of Fire" again the other night…

One of my favorite movies of all time. I originally saw it in a theater with friends, when it first came out. I loved Ben Cross & Ian Charleson, the score by Vangelis (R.I.P. to them all). I remember this theme for the U.S. team, which seemed so perfect: crisp, utilitarian and badass. And I felt more than a twinge of pride, as an American.
[media=https://youtu.be/g3DDm4wGxAo]

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DrWatson · 70-79, M

I love that movie as well.

From what I have read, historically the American athlete and British athlete actually spoke with each other about the crucial decision at the end of the movie. But the film obviously hired British actors to play the Americans, and they never spoke! So in the film, the communication had to come in the form of a written note.

Another interesting note: when the film was completed and reviewed by the MPAA, it was given a G rating. The director was furious, fearing that would ruin the financial prospects for the movie. But the board told him: there is no sex, no violence, no offensive language -- what would be objectionable about a child watching it?

So, the director reshot one scene, in which an actor inserted the word 'damn." That rescued the movie from being rated G. 😄

Of course, a child would probably be bored to tears by the movie. I think there ought to be a new rating: GT. "For general audiences -- but there's an awful lot of talking!"

bijouxbroussard · F

@DrWatson The two famous U.S. runners depicted, Charles Paddock and Jackson Scholz, were played by American actors Dennis Christopher and Brad Davis.

DrWatson · 70-79, M

@bijouxbroussard Oh! I had not realized that. Thanks for setting me straight.

firefall · 61-69, M

@DrWatson I was bemused to realise the NZ runner, 'Tom Brown', was actually Sir Arthur Porritt, who refused to let them use his name, as he didnt want to be glorified for it