Among the elite handful of truly great films

Rating: Null/10 (1 December 1998)

"Lawrence of Arabia" is breathtaking in its scope and its precision. Few films hit on the historic, cultural and esthetic keys so brilliantly. David Lean's ingenious patience makes the audience be willingly patient as scenes evolve. His contrasts with sight and sound paint an unforgettable portrait of a man and a land. Note the sudden seque from bright sunlight to dark well, the camel on the shore, the appearance of a ship over a sand dune -- all visually stunning work. The cinematography will leave a lump in your throat. Most of all, it is wonderful, mature storytelling. The cast of O'Toole, Sharif, Guinness, Hawkins, et al, is a perfect blend.