A mighty motion picture of action and adventure!|Dec. 11, 1962|United Kingdom|227 Min.|n/A
Genre: Adventure;Drama;History;War
Description: The 1962 film “Lawrence of Arabia” begins in 1935 with the tragic death of Lawrence in a motorcycle accident. During his memorial service at St. Paul’s Cathedral, a journalist struggles to uncover details about the complex and mysterious man from those who knew him. The story then shifts back to World War I, where Lawrence, a British Army lieutenant, stands out for his insolence and intellect. Despite General Murray’s objections, Mr. Dryden of the Arab Bureau assigns Lawrence to evaluate Prince Faisal’s rebellion against the Turks. While traveling, Lawrence’s Bedouin guide, Tafas, is killed by Sherif Ali for drinking from his well without permission. Lawrence later encounters Colonel Brighton, who instructs him to remain silent, assess the situation, and leave. However, Lawrence defies these orders during his meeting with Faisal, and his boldness captures the prince’s attention.
Brighton advises Faisal to retreat after a defeat, but Lawrence proposes a daring surprise attack on Aqaba. Capturing the town would provide the British with a crucial supply port. Although heavily fortified against naval attacks, Aqaba is less defended on its landward side. Lawrence convinces Faisal to provide fifty men, led by the skeptical Sherif Ali. Along the way, two teenage orphans, Daud and Farraj, join Lawrence as his servants. They cross the treacherous Nefud Desert, considered impassable even by the Bedouins, and endure a grueling journey to reach water. When one of Ali’s men, Gasim, collapses and is left behind, Lawrence turns back to rescue him, earning Sherif Ali’s respect. Lawrence is also gifted Arab robes to wear.
Lawrence later persuades Auda abu Tayi, a powerful tribal leader, to turn against the Turks. However, his plan is nearly jeopardized when a blood feud leads to the killing of one of Auda’s men by one of Ali’s men.
The film masterfully portrays Lawrence’s transformation and the challenges he faces during this historic rebellion.
Cast director: David Lean
Cast actor: Peter O’Toole, Omar Sharif, Alec Guinness, Jack Hawkins, Anthony Quinn, José Ferrer, Anthony Quayle, Claude Rains, Arthur Kennedy, Donald Wolfit
Original name: Lawrence of Arabia