Just Watch His Face

Rating: Null/10 (18 January 2003)

I've lost count how many times I've seen this film and do not feel it necessary to detail its brilliance. Others in this column have already done so and very well. It's an epic film in every sense, and I have a suggestion the next time you see it. Look carefully at Lawrence's face, especially his eyes, in scenes where someone is speaking to him one-on-one and he is listening (his first meeting with Allenby in Allenby's office is an excellent example). His constant inner struggle that ranges from terrible self-doubt to an almost Messiah-complex is fascinating to watch. For me, that's where the real story lies - not so much in what he did, but how he dealt with it internally.
I think if you try this, you'll experience a whole new side to this film and will appreciate it even more.