Take Away The Theme Song...

Actually, there are two heroes. One is a Jew (Reform or non-practicing? I'm not sure of either. He certainly does not seem Orthodox or Conservative) from a nouvaeu riche family seeking to prove that he deserves a place at the table. England was very anti-Semitic in those days. The movie is based on a true story and I do not have a problem believing this claim by the film. The other hero is a devout Presbyterian (or is he Anglican? I assumed Presbyterian because he is from Scotland, but I don't remember if they make it clear). He is running for God, but won't run on Sunday because he is convinced that such would violate the sanctity of the Sabbath.

Gee, just the irony of those two situations with Great Britain's best sprinters is dramatic. However, I agree with the OP of another post that the theme song of this movie by Vangelis merges perfectly with the credit scenes. It sets up expectations and excitement for the rest of the movie. Without it people might have been put to sleep by what is virtually a sermon at the beginning and then not to have awakened for the movie.


The best diplomat I know is a fully charged phaser bank.