The Sandlot

#7—Lawrence of Arabia

Epic true stories have become a staple of American cinema. These films share a grand story of a hero who has done a great many things. My favorite of these films is Braveheart, the story of William Wallace and his rebellion against the English during the Middle Ages. The seventh film of AFI’s list is another true story of epic proportions; however, it is about a man that Wallace would most likely be opposed.

Lawrence of Arabia tells the story of T.E. Lawrence and his time as a British officer during the Arabian Revolt. The film describes how he reluctantly agrees to be a British liaison to an Arab prince to actively helping the Arab tribes band together to force out the Turkish army.

Of course, this is not the first epic film on this list and it certainly will not be the last. For some reason to me, this film felt more like a modern film, instead of one that was made in 1962. The filming on location in the Middle East is what helped the feel for me.

Peter O’Toole’s performance as Lawrence was one of the best I have seen so far on this list. The way that O’Toole shows, Lawrence as a cool, almost aloof, man change to the war-hardened veteran is amazing.  O’Toole’s Lawrence is also one that is very ‘cocky’; through most of the film, he believes that he is just short of a god. Though, O’Toole’s transition to a humbled mortal is great. Omar Sharif plays Sharif Ali, Lawrence’s’ friend and “second in command”. Sharif does an amazing job conveying Ali’s concerns for Lawrence throughout the film. Ali warns his friend of being too arrogant, but Ali stands by his friend. The inner turmoil is clear with Sharif.

This is one of director David Lean’s epic war films. Another I will have a chance to review for you later. On this film, Lean has a wonderful way of showing the audience the vastness of the desert. Lean achieves this by the great many panoramic shots in the beginning of the film. I would like to believe Lean does this as a metaphor of Lawrence and his open mindedness in the beginning of the film. As mentioned, Lawrence in the start of the film is shown as “where the wind takes me” type man. Though as the film progresses the shot become more close up and tightly formed. Of course, this too is to show how determined and hardened Lawrence has become.

The only thing I had a problem with this film is not really with the film itself, but the fact that it is included on this list. As great of a film this is, the list was made by the American Film Institute for the celebration of American cinema. Lawrence of Arabia is through and through an English film. I do not like or dislike the film anymore because of this, but not sure why (even so high) it is on an American list.

With all of that being said, I still recommend this film to anyone. Especially if you would like to see one of the greatest performances by an actor in a film suited for those of you who love epic true stories.

Verdict: Worth Your Time.