Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

Written by: Robert Bolt and Michael Wilson

Directed by: David Lean

Lawrence of Arabia, made by the director of The Bridge on the River Kwai, in my opinion is carried foremost by one thing - Peter O'Toole's portrayal of Lawrence. This figure is defintely interesting with all his contradictory traits; Englishman and Arabic in soul, strategic and impulsive, strong and weak, mercyful and cruel.

The story may or may not have depicted the real Lawrence correctly; in my opinion it doesn't really matter, I want to see a great story that is beliavable in itself.

Even if O'Tooles acting is great and if I enjoy seeing films that mix cultures, I finished the film with the sense that someting was missing. I even dare to think that Lawrence of Arabia film could have been improved on several points. The first thing is the plot - it could be more focused, building up tension towards a climax. The film has several ups and lows, but it lacks consistency in its structure.

Furthermore, some of the mass scenes are simply not believable when it comes to the number of extras. This might have to do with having seen all the modern films where CGI fills in all the thousands of people. But it doesn't make sense when whole nations are in battle and then you see about 200 people fighting.

But I guess the main thing with a film is personal, do you connect to it or not? Do you care about the characters? With Lawrence of Arabia I didn't.

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