Yet the film is more than simply a visual spectacle: it offers a profound meditation on the lunacy of colonialism and the hypocrisies of war, demonstrating how success may easily slide the hero down the abyss of arrogance and blood.
But first, let’s talk about the film’s beauty. The cinematography of Freddie Young is just beautiful, depicting the desert in all its complexity, from the sun hammering down on the ever-moving sand to the blue eyes of the protagonist, Peter O’Toole, which appear to glow on the large screen.
There are numerous memorable scenes in the film, like Omar Sharif emerging from a mirage, the light gently revealing his face at morning, and the fight of Akaba, which is fascinating to see. These sequences were made without the use of computer-generated special effects, and they remain a visual feast to this day.
Not only that, but Lawrence of Arabia is also a literary masterpiece, because to screenwriter Robert Bolt’s ability to mix the grandeur of the imagery with the complexity of the people and the issues explored.
In conclusion, if you haven’t watched Lawrence of Arabia yet, don’t pass up the chance to do it in theatres, where you can really appreciate its grandeur. And if you’ve previously seen it, watch it again because you’ll uncover fresh intricacies and nuances in this global cinema classic each time.
Sir David Lean CBE is a British filmmaker, producer, screenwriter, and editor who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in British cinema.
His filmography includes The Bridge on the River Kwai, Lawrence of Arabia, Doctor Zhivago, and A Passage to India, among other epics.
