“We have taken Aqaba.”

[swashbuckler332]

“In whose name do you ride?”


• This week I had the pleasure of attending the Fathom theatrical presentation of Lawrence of Arabia. They were screening the recent 8k to 4k restoration of the film, which presents the extended 1989 director's cut of the film assembled by Katz and Harris under the direction of Sir David Lean and editor Anne V. Coates. I

Comments

[gislebertus]

I went to see Lawrence myself on Thursday as well, completing a 20 year quest to see my favorite film of all time on the big screen -- I'd tried more than once before, to have unfortunate circumstances block me, including the theft of my jeep the day of one screening. Needless to say, seeing it finally on a screen worthy of its grandeur and scope was well worth the wait. I damn near wanted to cry, I was so happy.

Nothing is written.

[swashbuckler332]

I admit I teared up a little when Daud sees Lawrence returning with Gasim. It's the most triumphant moment in the film (indeed, everything goes tonally downhill after that; even the victory at Aqaba is mitigated by the execution of Gasim that precedes it), and that music…

I a very glad for you that you finally got to see it… to really see it. It's a lot like Rocky Horror in that respect; even if you've seen it at home already, you're still a virgin. You can get the drama, but not the full force of the epic sweep that one can only get from a big screen.

Re: Nothing is written.

[gislebertus]

The restoration was mind-blowingly crisp, too. I was stunned by how gorgeous it was. I enjoyed the Scorsese interview leading into it, as well. It's a film that refuses to be easily deciphered, and I think that's why I return to it so often.

Now I just have to go see The Searchers on the big screen.

Re: Nothing is written.

[swashbuckler332]

I think that's one of the reasons for its continued popularity (the screening I saw played to a completely packed house); its enigmas transcend generations. None of the psychological portrayal of Lawrence has dated because the film didn't really draw conclusions so much as presented the character for your consideration.

I also have to say, that with the exception of Lawrence's fey trot in the officer's lounge that one time (you know the time I'm talking about - Michael Caine essays a similar prance at one point in Zulu as well, if I'm not mistaken), the style of the film hasn't really dated (other than the whole screen size thing; I hope this isn't the last time that I ever see this film on the big screen).

One day I hope to see a 70 millimeter screening of Spartacus.

[ehowton]

Its like a bi-monthly newsletter of what's what. I always enjoy reading your posts even if I have nothing to offer - and I love the pic of Varinia!