The First Olympics: Athens 1896

This movie was unique in that it showed the athletes of the 1986 Olympics as they really were, not just as sports stars. I particularly enjoyed the story of Spiridon Louis. If anyone has any information about Louis, please write me. I would like to write a book about his life. Again, this movie was excellent. Never before has a sports film touched so much on the human aspect of athletes' lives.

This movie was on TV in 1984 when the Olympics came to Los Angeles. I taped it then and still enjoy watching it. I enjoy how the story lines are developed from the universities to the games of the first Games of the modern Olympiad.

Very creative idea to make such a film and obviously the makers did some homework for the research. But I think they could have done better, especially the atheletic training. Some storylines are touching and the actors's interpretation convincing. But I still detect some American-centralism in this film, which is not always bad but could have been wrapped more skillfully. But what is most important about the film is the re-presentation of the zele of these young boys who aspired nothing but greatness and the meaning of a whole man-physically, intellectually and spiritually advanced. A good example for modern athlets. The relatively weak plot and transitions cannot overshadow the spirit of the actors.

This movie depicts how the current Olympics were renewed. It encompasses the trials and tribulations of getting atheletes from various natons, how they were trained and how they faired at the 1896 Olympics. Told with humor and suspense this is a "must have" for anyone who enjoys the Olympics. Filmed in part in Athens, the the beauty of the sites and the marvelous sound track only enhance this film. Parts will have you cheering, smiling, blushing and crying. It always brings me goosebumps whenever I see this film. Enjoy!