Historical Films on the First Olympics

Description: This iconic film captures the spirit of the 1924 Paris Olympics, focusing on two British athletes, Harold Abrahams and Eric Liddell, whose stories of personal struggle and triumph resonate with the Olympic ethos.

Fact: The film's famous theme tune by Vangelis won an Academy Award for Best Original Score, and the movie itself won Best Picture.

Description: Directed by Leni Riefenstahl, this film documents the 1936 Berlin Olympics, offering a visually stunning portrayal of the event, though it's controversial due to its association with Nazi propaganda.

Fact: Riefenstahl's innovative filming techniques, including the use of slow motion and tracking shots, revolutionized sports cinematography.

Description: This documentary provides an in-depth look at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, showcasing the first time women competed in swimming and diving, and the introduction of the decathlon.

Fact: It includes rare footage and interviews with historians, offering a unique perspective on the early Olympic Games.

Description: A miniseries that dramatizes the revival of the Olympic Games in Athens, highlighting the efforts of Pierre de Coubertin and the athletes who participated in this historic event.

Fact: This film was one of the first to be broadcast on NBC's "Sunday Night at the Movies," showcasing the network's commitment to Olympic history.

Description: This silent film captures the first Winter Olympics, showcasing the sports and the athletes who competed in the snowy French Alps.

Fact: It's one of the earliest surviving films of the Winter Olympics, providing a historical snapshot of the era.

Description: A rare glimpse into the second modern Olympic Games held in Paris, this film includes footage of various events and the cultural context of the time.

Fact: The Paris 1900 Olympics were part of the World's Fair, and many athletes were unaware they were competing in the Olympics.

Description: This documentary covers the 1904 St. Louis Olympics, which were overshadowed by the World's Fair but still featured significant athletic achievements.

Fact: The marathon included bizarre events like the winner being given strychnine and brandy by his trainers.

Description: This film documents the London Olympics of 1908, which introduced the marathon distance of 26 miles 385 yards, now the standard.

Fact: The marathon route was extended to finish in front of the royal family's box, setting the marathon distance we know today.

Description: This film captures the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, known for the introduction of the decathlon and the first use of electronic timing.

Fact: Jim Thorpe, an American Indian, won both the pentathlon and decathlon, becoming the first Native American to win Olympic gold.

Description: Documenting the Antwerp Olympics, this film showcases the return of the Games after World War I, with a focus on the spirit of international reconciliation.

Fact: The 1920 Olympics were the first to include the Olympic flag and the Olympic oath.