Much of contemporary criticism of this movie revolves around bitterness for its dark horse Oscar win for Best Picture in 1982. Watching this film years later, though, it is difficult not to be grabbed by the passion of its characters, and not to be reminded why it garnered such praise in the first place. When Eric Liddell throws his head back in ecstacy as he runs the race of his life, he shows us the inward freedom of his own life. Along from its iconic score, the acting, directing, and writing are superior. This film stands out not as the recipient of a Best Picture Oscar, but as an example of genuinely good art.