While Spielberg’s wearisome work oozes the worst kind of schmaltzy faux sentimentality, watching Redmond dash from the stands to attend to his stricken son Derek in the semi-final of the 400 metres forces even the most granite-hearted to reach for the Kleenex.
Quite rightly, Redmond senior has been acknowledged for his moment helping his boy across the line by being appointed as one of the first carriers of the Olympic flame when it arrives here in the summer.
This is a man who, without ever actually participating, encapsulates the best of the Olympic spirit.
What is more, he will also, when he trots through the streets, be demonstrating this truth about all sport: behind every great performer is a parent, who lives, breathes and suffers every moment of their offspring’s efforts.
