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A grand classic from bygone days. Sweeping epic about the real life adventures of T.E. Lawrence, a British major who unified Arab tribes and led them in the fight for independence from the Ottoman Turks in the 1920s.
Epic rumination on a flamboyant and controversial British military figure and his conflicted loyalties during wartime service.
Peter O'Toole: T.E. Lawrence
Steven Spielberg states it as one of his great favourite films of all time, he boldly says, ''A Miracle of a film!'' and you can easily see and hear why when you witness the spectacle for yourself.
The life of T.E. Lawrence is brought to us in epic proportions from Director David Lean, in such a mind-blowingly spectacular way that defies, exceeds and fulfils expectations.
A biographical film concerning T.E. Lawrence, taken from the autobiography The Seven Pillars of Wisdom.
Revolving around a seemingly timid and politely garish British lieutenant whom is stationed in Cairo. He was sent into the deserts to report about the conflicts in Arabia concerning national movements from 1916-1918, but Lawrence returns holding a love and passion for the Arabs, he becomes one of them, and decides to help them fight for their freedom against the Turkish Ottoman Empire.
Visually perfect with a score which is spine shuddery delicious. Even more impact where David Lean decides to have the music on its own with no visuals, where you can just close your eyes and immerse yourself within the melodies and haunting soothing tunes that embody the spirit of this age.
Lawrence of Arabia is the milestone slice of film ever to ever grace the screen. It borrows some structural elements from Citizen Kane and perfects the art of the biographical film.
Peter O'Toole embodies T.E. Lawrence so well you believe he really is the man from life he portrays.
Alec Guinness, Anthony Quinn, Jack Hawkins, Omar Sharif, Anthony Quayle and Claude Rains all add to a spectacular array of casting.
''Truly, for some men nothing is written unless THEY write it.''
Lawrence of Arabia reminiscent of the equally epic and classic predecessor from David Lean, Bridge on the River Kwai(Which also won 7 Oscars) further backs up his skill and precision at bringing to life spectacular events upon film and the eye. This is timeless, memorable on-goings that deserve repeated viewings.
Cinematography by Freddie Young is vast and flows, showing the desert and city scapes in all the glory celluloid doth allow. To accompany these luscious visuals is the original breath taking score by Maurice Jarre whom composed a rainbow of sound to suit the Arabian settings and desert. Infinite and dazzling just like the desert itself would be a good way of describing the score and the beautiful stunning landscapes.
It must also be said that Lawrence of Arabia isn't just about showing the unifying of Arab tribes at the particular time of the turn of the Century, but it also shows the murky politics of the British Empire as well as Turkish Empire. It shows how they ''use'' Lawrence for their own advantages and ends. The leaders of the Arabs and the British know keeping power and their people aren't always in mind of their own agendas. The people in power, the politicians and kings are corrupt enough to be selfish, and Lawrence is the opposite: Selfless.
Another clever scene shown is when Lawrence is captured by Turkish Soldiers and taken to a commander in charge. It shows the Turkish are essentially the same as the British. The faces may be different but the game remains the same.
Earlier the film shows Lawrence rescue an Arab whom is left behind in the desert, his friend Sherif advises against it but Lawrence still goes. He states, ''It is not written.'' Thus he goes on to find the man, save him and ultimately later by a twist of fate the twist results in being the man he saves steals and he ends up having to execute him. What does this tell us? Sometimes however hard we try or think, destiny and fate are a real possibility and fear for us. We cannot contemplate not being in control of our lives. It's a clever notion to reflect upon.
Overall, 1962 saw the dawn of this epic colossus masterpiece to grace audiences and screens. It garnered critical acclaim and 7 Oscars in appreciation for it's illustrious, incredible journey and historical Hollywood coated greatness. Fortunately for me and others, the film was restored and kept in the same condition as when it was originally conceived, for a special edition release for today's fans and appreciators. This is epic cinema from a golden age. This is over three hours capturing historical wonder and escapism.
This is unforgettable.
''The best of them won't come for money; they'll come for me.''
10/10
