There are movies that are epic, and then there are ones that are this one. Probably the most intimidating out of all the films within the top 10 of the AFI List, this stands as a movie you’re going to need to dedicate some time to.
So how does it work now—a nearly four-hour movie in a time when content over a minute long is a risky bet?
We’re here with 1962’s Lawrence of Arabia, written by Robert Bolt and Michael Wilson, and directed by David Lean.
Within this movie, a lot of themes emerge, but the central question seems to be: where do our loyalties lie?
Lawrence is very much a rebel, living and dying by his motorcycle—the ultimate symbol of rebellion (see Easy Rider). He is, though, part of the British Army, and I think we’re all aware that armies are not known for encouraging people to walk to the beat of their own drum.
Lawrence is originally set to carry out his orders, but as time goes on, he realizes more and more that he has a connection with the Arabs. He and the main tribal leader, Sherif Ali, forge a friendship, and one of the toughest things Lawrence has to do is execute someone on his own side.
When he looks at himself in the water, he no longer recognizes the man staring back. And when he eventually returns to the British, it’s clear he no longer knows where he belongs.
The thing that’s probably least compatible between this film and today’s world is how it should be watched. This should most definitely not be viewed on a cell phone (besides the fact that you’ll get carpal tunnel holding your iPhone up for four straight hours).
This film is gorgeous, and I can only imagine how incredible it must have been to see it on the big screen.
With limited indoor shots and tons of footage of fighting in the desert, walking in the desert, and doing a lot of other things in the desert, the movie is demanding a spacious feel.
It was made as a spectacle and a visual work of art, and honestly, it deserves more theatrical rereleases.
So does it stand the test of time? Will it win you over like Lawrence to the Arabs and stand up to the Ottoman Empire of TikTok videos and small-bite content?
I think it’s beautiful and compelling enough to do just that. But if you have a short attention span, you might want to warm up to it. Start with a Lord of the Rings extended cut and work your way through a Ken Burns documentary on the history of rail travel.
Or you can just pretend this is a bunch of episodes from a new show, and you’re going to binge-watch it.
But either way, put on your best desert outfit and dive in. It’ll be worth it.