Five decades before George Lucas’ space opera, this film transformed the desert into an almost magical setting and gave us one of the most memorable cinematic adventures.
Can you imagine a film that not only won seven Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director, but has also served as inspiration for one of the most important sagas in cinema? Well that’s right Lawrence of Arabiaa classic directed by David Lean which has been a reference point for filmmakers such as George Lucas, James Cameron and Denis Villeneuve.
‘Lawrence of Arabia’: What is the movie about?
The film transports us to the First World War, where we follow the British officer Thomas Edward Lawrence, played by Peter O’Toole. Lawrence is on a mission to liberate the Arabian Peninsula from the Turkish army, and to achieve this, he joins the Arabs, blending into their lifestyle, and gaining the trust of Prince Feisal, played by Alec Guinness.
The story, based on Lawrence’s real life, has a highly involving narrative thanks to the work of screenwriters Robert Bolt and Michael Wilson. As Lawrence becomes more integrated with the Arab tribes, his friendship and loyalty are tested when he discovers the true intentions of his fellow British.
The influence on ‘Star Wars’ and beyond
When watching both films, the influence of Lawrence of Arabia in many aspects of Star Wars. The scenes in the Tatooine desert are reminiscent of the landscapes in which British soldiers and Arab tribes operate in Lawrence of Arabia. Even Luke Skywalker’s appearance has clear inspirations from the protagonist, Lawrence, and as if that were not enough, Alec Guinness, who plays the role of the Prince, is the same one who would later play the role of Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars,
Other movies like RogueOne and The Rise of Skywalker share locations with Lawrence of Arabia, like the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan. Besides, the Plaza de España in Seville, used as a British military base in Cairo in Lawrence of Arabia, it appears in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones like a majestic building on Naboo.
In addition to all the above, A key aspect that makes this film a reference of the seventh art is the music of Maurice Jarre and the impressive cinematography of Freddie A. Young, These two elements give the film a visual and sonic majesty like no other.
So if you are looking for a movie that combines adventure with history and also trains your cinephile eye, Lawrence of Arabia It is the perfect choice. Available for purchase and rental on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV, this movie lasts three and a half hours but they are totally worth it. Do you dare to watch it today?
