Review of Lawrence of Arabia (1962) by Instant_Palmer — 22 Sep 2021
David Lean's Masterpiece is a Cinematic Treasure (now in 4K UHD!).
The film that inspired Steven Spielberg to pursue a career as a film maker for good reason - 'Lawrence of Arabia' is a cinematic treasure - the greatest "Epic" movie, and one of the 5 greatest films ever made.
The spectacularly gorgeous and awe inspiring cinematography of Freddie Young tips the scale for me in favor of 'Lawrence Of Arabia' as Film's greatest work of art in the Epic genre, and surpasses 'Citizen Kane', and The 'Shawshank Redemption’, landing at #3 on my lMDb "Top 5 Greatest Films" ever made list, topped only by 'The Godfather' (#1) and 'Spotlight' (which moved up to #2 all-time in its first year of eligibility in 2020).
The immensity and scale of the desert creates the perfect canvas on which Lean paints his masterpiece - We shall never again see authentic location shoots on this truly epic scale, as granted permission for such is virtually impossible today (one reason why films are shot in similar locals around the world, but often not the actually location where the story takes place).
Restoration efforts in 1988 led by Spielberg and Scorsese saved most of what would have been a tragic loss.
Now available in 4K UHD, the film has never looked better.
My grandmother took me to see 'Lawrence Of Arabia' at a beautifully restored baroque theatre when I was 12, as the film was periodically shown in such art film houses for years after its release - It is an event I will never forget.
This review of Lawrence of Arabia (1962) was written by Instant_Palmer on 22 Sep 2021.
Lawrence of Arabia has generally received very positive reviews.
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