The Grand Olympics (1961): cast, story & where to watch
1961 · Film · ★ 5.3
Released in 1961, The Grand Olympics is a documentary film directed by Romolo Marcellini, running about 142 minutes.
What it’s about. Events and athletes that characterized the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome. From the absolute protagonist Wilma Rudolph, called the black gazelle, to Livio Berruti, the first white to win the 200 meters, to the deeds of Ethiopian marathon runner Abebe Bikila, who won the marathon racing barefoot.
Who’s in it. The Grand Olympics stars Jesse Owens as Himself, Bing Crosby as Himself, Rafer Johnson as Himself and Pope John XXIII as Himself, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.3/10, The Grand Olympics has proved divisive with audiences.
Where to watch. In US you can stream it on Criterion Channel. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Grand Olympics page.
If you liked it. Fans of The Grand Olympics tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Grand Olympics (1961)?
- In US, The Grand Olympics is available to stream on Criterion Channel. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
- Is The Grand Olympics worth watching?
- The Grand Olympics holds an audience score of 5.3 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy documentary. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in The Grand Olympics?
- The Grand Olympics stars Jesse Owens, Bing Crosby, Rafer Johnson, Pope John XXIII and Ralph Boston.