Review of Lawrence of Arabia (1962) by Byron B — 14 Mar 2013

When I saw this several years ago I didn't really get it. I saw it on video, on a small screen, and in "pan and scan" of course, but it was a part of history I knew nothing about and I didn't find Peter O'Toole's Lawrence traditionally heroic.

Now with the digitally restored re-release, Freddie Young's and David Lean's work can be best appreciated on the big screen. Maurice Jarre's score is sumptuous as well. Be prepared for that old fashioned custom of the movie epic, an intermission.

I think it is the type of film that is better understood when one is a little older. I followed the story more easily this time. Though Lawrence does have some fickle changes in mood occasionally, I felt I could understand his motivations more.

I had not realized before how Anthony Quayle's Colonel Brighton is really the audience's main observer. Just as in The Bridge on the River Kwai, Lean observes through Brighton the madness of war.

Lawrence may be British by birth, but as the title suggests, Lawrence is OF Arabia. Even if all the small tribes are united, would the British empire, the military, and the politicians allow true self governance.

Anyways, the supporting roster of actors are excellent. Alec Guinness, Omar Sharif, Anthony Quinn, Anthony Quayle, Jack Hawkins, Jose Ferrer, Claude Rains, and Arthur Kennedy all bring World War I in the Middle East to life.