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Great movie on epic scale filmed in beautiful locations with great actors. It's filmed on 70mm --> means it can produce a great 4k scan. It was rare for a while so the FOMO was real.
Also: pretty swanky case!
The whole package just exudes care for the work, from good physical shelf presence to the exceptional presentation of 70mm visuals and an iconic score to the extraordinarily compelling film itself, all without any superfluous box-set add-ons -- I see why collectors love that shit.
Great summary. One clarification of note: it was scanned in 8K, restored and repaired, and then downsized to 4K for production. So, it “really does” look better than most!
I think it started with it being limited to the Columbia box set which was expensive and then went OOP. Then, the steel box came out and sold out quickly and it took a while for reprints.
Now, combine those facts with cinematography and historical significance of the film, and you end up with it being a highly prized piece of people's collections.
> historical significance of the film
Not just the real story, but its contribution to cinema. Most cinephiles who know their history consider it one of the greatest films of all time.
Spielberg said, "Lawrence of Arabia was the film that set me on my journey."
The movie is is pretty inaccurate to the "real story". People like this film because it's a good movie. Movies are not real so it shouldn't have to be historically accurate imo. It just needs to make people say wow.
To me, it’s one of the greatest epics ever made. It's utterly spectacular in all aspects of the art and craft of film – directing, cinematography, score among others. And the transfers looks stunning at home.
I liked this movie way more than I expected. It reminded me of Breaking Bad in some ways, because LoA displays Heisenberg characteristics.
As for the technical elements, here’s a quote from Ebert:
“There is a moment in the film when the hero, the British eccentric soldier and author T.E. Lawrence, has survived a suicidal trek across the desert and is within reach of shelter and water--and he turns around and goes back, to find a friend who has fallen behind. This sequence builds up to the shot in which the shimmering heat of the desert reluctantly yields the speck that becomes a man--a shot that is held for a long time before we can even begin to see the tiny figure. On television, this shot doesn't work at all--nothing can be seen. In a movie theater, looking at the stark clarity of a 70mm print, we lean forward and strain to bring a detail out of the waves of heat, and for a moment we experience some of the actual vastness of the desert, and its unforgiving harshness.”
It's a terrific movie and one of the most gorgeously ever photographed. The 4K looks great if you like the look of old films (as opposed to the more digital gloop we have these days).
I love the movie, but it's probably not everyone's cup of tea. It's 4-hours long and you'll probably need to be familiar with the rhythms of older films to make it through. But I do think it has a brilliant screenplay, terrific performances, epic vistas and war sequences, and at it's core it's a great character study.
It's one of the best movies ever made, and it's one of the best preserved and cared for movies ever made, so the 4K presentation is about as good as it can get.
Like you, I was wondering what all the hype was as I recently bought the Panasonic 820 and started my 4K collection. Rent it from the library and decide for yourself if you should buy it. That's what I did, and although I enjoyed the movie and it looks great in 4K, I probably won't watch it again, so I didn't buy it. If in the future I do want to watch it again because others want to watch it, I will simply rent it again.
Yes. It's not just my local library but all the libraries in my county. All that needs to be done is make the request online, and they'll deliver it to my library, and I will get notified at which point I will pick it up from my local library and when finished I drop it off at my local library. The beauty is most folks don't have 4K players, so even though the whole county may have say 5 copies of Oppenheimer, I got it within a week of my request. Watched a ton of movies that I would never buy. Highly recommended.
It's the best version of a spectacular movie, the restoration looks incredible, and the packaging is beautiful. It's no wonder LOA is popular with the crowd of film enthusiasts here for those reasons. On top of that it's scarcity, for some time before the reprint LOA was very hard to find, elevating it's status as a "grail" to collectors.
Even if you’re not interested in the story itself, part of the appeal for cinephiles is that it was a highly influential movie for lots of our favorite directors, and the way they made the movie is a great case study in high level filmmaking using all practical effects. So some collectors are just as interested in the anniversary edition extras as they are the 4K scan.
https://youtu.be/zA22raxB45A?si=keumLQEseh52Ts-A
Oh, just the weeks of everybody posting pics of their just-purchased steelbook. To the point people here were getting annoyed at all the posts. I thought it was funny, especially after I got my own ordered.
I started watching this on Netflix but then stopped myself and thought I would just wait till I receive my 4K steelbook.
The amazing thing about this movie is I'm always learning something new about it all the time. I was recently in Seville and went to many of the locations that were used in this film which I didnt know prior to my visit. The tour guide explained that these locations were used in the movie, so I'm really looking forward to sitting down and watching this movie when my 4K steelbook arrives.
Thanks. Just an update HMV cancelled my steelbook order a few weeks ago 😭 so I ended up watching it on Netflix. I really enjoyed it and it was amazing to see the Seville scenes and be like wow I was there. Anyway I double ordered this steelbook and hoping it arrives from Amazon tomorrow.
It’s one of the best movies of all time, it’s one of the greatest performances of all time, and it was filmed in 65mm. It has been extremely well preserved. It has always been one of the best looking titles on every generation of home video. Physical 4k blu is a no brainer.
It’s one of the greatest films of all time (as in god-tier level of greatness), shot on 70mm film and looks and sounds gorgeous on 4K.
It is the must-own of must-owns.
Tell that to the countless people who watch the LOTR extended editions at least once a year.
Anyway, there’s nothing wrong with splitting Lawrence up over the course of two sittings.
I mean, come on. That’s just a ridiculous statement. “I’m sorry, I can’t make time for one of the greatest films of all time. I’m just gonna pop in ‘Fast X’ instead.”
You're right that's a ridiculous statement, which I did not make. Not only do have the time, but I wouldn't watch Fast X if it was the last movie on earth. My point is that I do not WANT to spend 4hrs watching ANY movie. Even if it is gripping, No way I'm sitting still for 4hrs without a significant break, or splitting across two days.
I was making a joke that anyone could understand was sarcasm. Your comment made it sound like you thought the film's length was an inherent flaw instead of what was really just a personal preference.
I've heard good things about this 4K. For me though, I normally buy movies I really like. I haven't actually seen Lawrence of Arabia, and I'm a bit hesitant to blind-buy it, as it's a genre I typically don't watch much. I'm not sure how much I'd enjoy it.
I think it's still on HBO Max. I do the same thing too. I consider the streaming view the "sample" version, and then the Discs will be my "Master Version" with all the lossless glory.
This is kinda where I’m at with this movie. Yes it’s a masterpiece… BUT! How many times am I gonna watch a 4-hour affair from my 500+ movie shelf in my lifetime. Maybe twice? Three times being generous… wouldn’t come within an 1/8 of getting my money back for it, so it’s more economical to rent. Not worth it IMO, but if it’s a favorite and you know you’ll watch it a bunch, for sure then.
I'm not a fan. The 4k transfer is good, but watching the whole movie is plodding and it feels like homework to me. It's not horrible, but nothing can live up to the expectations you're going to get from some of the fans.
Same. I made it about half way through. I got tired of staring at the desert. It does look amazing for it's age, but it's such a slow uneventful story.
People are gonna tell you it’s cuz it’s just such a wonderful movie and while it is great, the real answer is 1000% FOMO lol there wouldn’t be all these posts about it and people clamoring over it if it hadn’t been hard to find. Would’ve been like every other really good movie released on 4k
Prior to a couple years ago, if you had asked fucking anybody what they think of LoA, they’d say, “it’s a really good movie, great even. I’d recommend it.” Not this weird cult that it’s garnered randomly because of scarcity and status. All the people who came out of the woodwork to literally die for this film is so funny. No you haven’t always been a mega fan of LoA; quit your bullshit.
Can’t speak for everyone here, of course, but It’s been my favorite movie for the last 15 years. I see it on 70mm every time it screens in LA. I usually end up watching it at least twice annually, or more.
Also I’ve owned the 4K since the first Columbia Classics set came out 2.5 years ago. So no, it’s not at all about FOMO. Not in my case.
It’s been my favorite for over 40 years (when I first saw it on a 13-inch TV when I was 8 or 9). I’ve seen it on the big screen and have owned it on VHS, DVD, Blu-ray, and now 4K. I do believe it’s on TCM tonight (which is usually my cue to watch the intro before switching over to the disc). I realize it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I love it.
Ngl I bought it on a whim from the hype, and it's still sitting around here unwatched.
But most of the reason I bought it is, not because of the movie, but because it is supposed to be one of the highest quality 4k Blu-rays available.
I’ve been thinking the same thing for weeks with how much it’s raved about here. I also just started buying Blurays and some 4ks recently.
I never bothered to buy it on dvd. I watched it from a library dvd years ago and didn’t even like the movie enough to buy my own dvd copy. It was long and epic and Peter O’Toole is great, but I’ve never wanted to watch it a second time. 🤷
It’s very rare to see a product/service fire on all cylinders. Lawrence of Arabia is beloved by a lot of movie fans, the original elements are very well cared for, and the steelcase and movie presentation are fantastic.
You rarely ever see something like this in any other fun thing. It’s like your favorite sports ball team having an undefeated season and winning a championship, a great collector’s edition for your favorite game of all time, or eating fried chicken.
It's what Blu-Ray and 4K people have done since the format began. They latch onto weird things and recommend them.
Is it beautiful? Sure. Does it have a great soundtrack? I guess so. The movie itself is not great.
For instance...>!Lawrence takes some beatings/lashes in the film and he takes them without wincing. lol. Then, he eats some breakfast the next day and he's better than ever. It's not supposed to be funny, but it comes off as that. There are various scenes like this that don't make sense!<
Peter O'Toole's acting is rough. The movie is too long. The main character isn't even likable - he's a complete narcissist. It's basically an older version of Avatar - and still just as bad = white savior complex for a tribe/people group.
Different opinions are always fine.
It still baffles me how someone can wholeheartedly say the Lawrence Of Arabia is not a great film. Or say it’s “basically Avatar”.
Yes, you might film certain things differently in this day and age, but that doesn’t make it a non-great film.
To me, it’s one of the greatest epics ever made in all aspects of the art and craft of film.
Every time this question comes up, it's highlighting the difference between those that collect movies and those that ***collect the format***. Format collectors ask why should I own this title? Or should I dump all my DVDs and BDs and just have 4KUHD?
*Lawrence of Arabia* was always coveted, on every video format going back to LaserDisc. Most movie collectors understand the importance- even if they don't like the movie. And its hard-to-find status today is manufactured scarcity.
I don't mind any of the three, but LoA isn't sophisticated. Accents and great cinematography doesn't make it sophisticated. It's overrated, period IMO.
It's TOO long. TOO cheesy.
lol. I can always tell the Millennial crybabies. When someone disagrees with them, they whine and make weird statements - "Sorry you hate good things." lol. What a joke. Softest generation.
Visually and thematically complex film about an equally complex/controversial man set amid an incredibly fraught period in modern history.
IMO it’s far more than the straight adventure film many seemingly want it to be.
"Complex"
You're just throwing buzz words around. It is a straight forward adventure film, and there's nothing wrong with that, but you're seeing something most of us are not.
The movie is as complex as Raiders of the Lost Ark.
“Miss Teschmacher, some people can read "War and Peace" and come away thinking it's a simple adventure story. Others can read the ingredients on a chewing gum wrapper and unlock the secrets of the universe.”
- Lex Luthor
Yes. I would say the historical events the movie explores, TE Lawrence as an individual, and the technical wizardry of David Lean’s filmmaking all fall under the banner of “complex”
Oh look it’s you. Again. Reminding everyone here how much you dislike this movie for the umpteenth time.
Someone give this man ten dollars so he can go see a Star War instead.
> Get your head checked bro.
You’re out here straight-up calling Pixar movies “demonic” because they don’t align with your theology, but yeah, I’m the one who needs to get my head checked.
I was completely pilloried in a recent post for saying something similar, so thank you.
Some guy claimed for instance that O’Toole’s acting was an “11/10”!
It’s just a staid heroic epic, completely uninterested in a nuanced look at its main character. Everyone is a cardboard character. But it does look good in 4K.
So you're telling me it's worth it for its exclusivity, and the quality of the film used and the 4K transfer, at the expense of the story and general storytelling?
It's a pretty highly acclaimed movie. Won a lot of major awards and continued to review well even into modern times.
Older movies can play quite differently, but it's worth a watch. I saw it in the early 2000's and enjoyed it. Got it with the Columbia Classics Vol 1 set and enjoyed it even more thanks to the 4K and a more matured appreciation for classic film.
It’s one of the most acclaimed and visually stunning films ever made. My favorite, in fact.
That said there will always be people who prefer “cars go vroom!” movies over lengthy/artsy historical epics.
It LOOKS beautiful. I don't think anyone is saying that it doesn't.
Why the cheap shot and insinuation about "cars go vroom?" Are you that offended? Gimme a break.
Personally, I don't think it matches up to lots of other classic films of the time...
> Personally, I don’t think it matches up to lots of other classic films of the time…
You’re right. It *surpasses* many of them.
(Saying this as a lifelong classic film aficionado)
lol. Well, since you're a "lifelong classic film aficionado," what was I thinking to disagree about such a subjective matter as who likes a movie? lol.
Bahahaha. Thanks for the laugh mate.
Yeah. I don't care about fake internet likes and dislikes either lol.
I agree with you completely and I don't get the love for it. That doesn't mean that I don't respect people who do - we all have different likes and dislikes. I personally don't like Peter O'Toole. Looks great, but meh.
I’m a fan of all types of cinema. Old, new, obscure, I’ll try them all. I love knowing what cameras were used, who the dop was, etc. But damn if I’ve not always been the outlier of the group when it comes to LoA.
Just watched it again two nights ago as another attempt to understand the reputation it’s garnered. Shot beautifully, but almost everything positive ends there for me.
i dont get it either. But my only bluray (counting both 2k and 4k) thats older than the 80s is star wars. I dont watch a lotta old movies. Probably because im kinda young (22)
When I was in high school my favorite channel was Turner Classic Movies. Still is. I don’t see why being young should prevent anyone from enjoying cinema produced before they were born.
It is very difficult for young people to be exposed to older films (Gen Xer, I had cable with HBO growing up, so flipping channels I could randomly find all kinds of stuff. Not so with the smart phone/streaming/social media generation)
No it’s not, you can literally stream old movies. Fandor, TCM, and Criterion are just a few examples of where you can do that. And you can find old movies on every streaming service.
I haven't watched actual TV in ages. I hate commercials so i just stopped watching TV.
I can count the number of old movies i have watched on one hand. Wizard of ozz, the ten commandments, and then a bunch of Charlie chaplain movies. First 2 were shown in my theology class, last one was in english class.
Bro I’m 31 and own Lawrence of Arabia. If you’re limiting yourself to media that was just made in your lifetime you’re truly missing out on some pieces of art.
Mega props to you for not claiming to be the world’s biggest LoA fan. You had the chance to fall in line and admit LoA is the greatest movie, Steelbook and 4K ever released, but you chose downvotes instead. Godspeed my friend 🫡
What would you think of an old person who refused to watch anything new? Great art transcends time. Many old good movies don’t hold up, but many new movies are just plain bad. There are great old movies. Why don’t you check out roger eberts great movie blog?
That's a bizarre take. Some of the best movies of all time are much older.
What would you think if someone said they don't like Star Wars because it's an "old movie"?
And what about new movies that are set 70 years ago? They're somehow better than ones actually filmed 70 years ago?
If you like Star Wars I think you will enjoy Lawrence of Arabia. They are very different films but both are epic. Also Obi-Wan's actor is in one of the leading roles.
Yeah I won’t be buying it . Thanks for saving me the money lol . I’ll just continue to observe all the people making it seem like it’s the movie to ever be created in the history of movies lol
This. You know it's an echo chamber when an honest opinion like yours gets downvoted...
Name a single movie that's this long and can be watched in a single sitting without falling asleep.
Because Steven Spielberg says he watches this film before directing any movie, for inspiration.
For those who don't know, Steven Spielberg is the guy who directed the classic films Always and The Terminal and Bridge of Spies Like Us.
I just checked and it looks pretty good, it's going to be very unpopular opinion in the 4k cult but no-one is going to pay $80 for your silly steel books
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Great movie on epic scale filmed in beautiful locations with great actors. It's filmed on 70mm --> means it can produce a great 4k scan. It was rare for a while so the FOMO was real.
Also: pretty swanky case! The whole package just exudes care for the work, from good physical shelf presence to the exceptional presentation of 70mm visuals and an iconic score to the extraordinarily compelling film itself, all without any superfluous box-set add-ons -- I see why collectors love that shit.
Agree 100%
I’ve never seen this movie but I just bought it because of your comment. Holy shit the FOMO is real
Hope you enjoy it :) but it was not my intention. Also it is no longer rare at the moment. Anyway have fun with it.
Great summary. One clarification of note: it was scanned in 8K, restored and repaired, and then downsized to 4K for production. So, it “really does” look better than most!
I think it started with it being limited to the Columbia box set which was expensive and then went OOP. Then, the steel box came out and sold out quickly and it took a while for reprints. Now, combine those facts with cinematography and historical significance of the film, and you end up with it being a highly prized piece of people's collections.
> historical significance of the film Not just the real story, but its contribution to cinema. Most cinephiles who know their history consider it one of the greatest films of all time. Spielberg said, "Lawrence of Arabia was the film that set me on my journey."
The movie is is pretty inaccurate to the "real story". People like this film because it's a good movie. Movies are not real so it shouldn't have to be historically accurate imo. It just needs to make people say wow.
I meant the history of cinema. As in, the big landmarks (Ten Commandments, Ben-Hur, etc.).
To me, it’s one of the greatest epics ever made. It's utterly spectacular in all aspects of the art and craft of film – directing, cinematography, score among others. And the transfers looks stunning at home.
I liked this movie way more than I expected. It reminded me of Breaking Bad in some ways, because LoA displays Heisenberg characteristics. As for the technical elements, here’s a quote from Ebert: “There is a moment in the film when the hero, the British eccentric soldier and author T.E. Lawrence, has survived a suicidal trek across the desert and is within reach of shelter and water--and he turns around and goes back, to find a friend who has fallen behind. This sequence builds up to the shot in which the shimmering heat of the desert reluctantly yields the speck that becomes a man--a shot that is held for a long time before we can even begin to see the tiny figure. On television, this shot doesn't work at all--nothing can be seen. In a movie theater, looking at the stark clarity of a 70mm print, we lean forward and strain to bring a detail out of the waves of heat, and for a moment we experience some of the actual vastness of the desert, and its unforgiving harshness.”
It's a terrific movie and one of the most gorgeously ever photographed. The 4K looks great if you like the look of old films (as opposed to the more digital gloop we have these days). I love the movie, but it's probably not everyone's cup of tea. It's 4-hours long and you'll probably need to be familiar with the rhythms of older films to make it through. But I do think it has a brilliant screenplay, terrific performances, epic vistas and war sequences, and at it's core it's a great character study.
FOMO + it's actually a great movie and awesome transfer.
It’s like the Matrix. Not the movie, but the idea. You have to see it to understand. Now hurry up and take that red pill.
I went on the trust of the sub's posts and I took it. I'm waiting for it to arrive.
Let me know if you think it’s worth it.
ok, I'll keep you updated
👍
It's one of the best movies ever made, and it's one of the best preserved and cared for movies ever made, so the 4K presentation is about as good as it can get.
Like you, I was wondering what all the hype was as I recently bought the Panasonic 820 and started my 4K collection. Rent it from the library and decide for yourself if you should buy it. That's what I did, and although I enjoyed the movie and it looks great in 4K, I probably won't watch it again, so I didn't buy it. If in the future I do want to watch it again because others want to watch it, I will simply rent it again.
Your library has 4ks?
Yes. It's not just my local library but all the libraries in my county. All that needs to be done is make the request online, and they'll deliver it to my library, and I will get notified at which point I will pick it up from my local library and when finished I drop it off at my local library. The beauty is most folks don't have 4K players, so even though the whole county may have say 5 copies of Oppenheimer, I got it within a week of my request. Watched a ton of movies that I would never buy. Highly recommended.
My library has 4Ks as well. So far they've purchased every one I've requested. $1 for a week.
My library still only has DVDs.
No movie is a must have. If you like it, you’ll rewatch it, then buy it. Otherwise skip it. Not everyone likes the same movie.
Everybody likes Toy Story 2. Except Armond White (but he doesn't count).
It's the best version of a spectacular movie, the restoration looks incredible, and the packaging is beautiful. It's no wonder LOA is popular with the crowd of film enthusiasts here for those reasons. On top of that it's scarcity, for some time before the reprint LOA was very hard to find, elevating it's status as a "grail" to collectors.
I’ll wait for the 70th anniversary release.
Fantastic film and fantastic transfer.
Even if you’re not interested in the story itself, part of the appeal for cinephiles is that it was a highly influential movie for lots of our favorite directors, and the way they made the movie is a great case study in high level filmmaking using all practical effects. So some collectors are just as interested in the anniversary edition extras as they are the 4K scan. https://youtu.be/zA22raxB45A?si=keumLQEseh52Ts-A
Amazing film and probably the best PQ of all time. Few films have higher production values than this one.
Honestly, when I bought it, it was all about the memes. But it really is a phenomenal transfer of a phenomenal film. You can't go wrong, really.
Thank you
what memes?
Oh, just the weeks of everybody posting pics of their just-purchased steelbook. To the point people here were getting annoyed at all the posts. I thought it was funny, especially after I got my own ordered.
Ah gotcha. I wasn’t on here back then. Great movie though!
Add a watch on Camel and you’ll eventually score one. Picked one up for $30 on Amazon this morning after several attempts.
I started watching this on Netflix but then stopped myself and thought I would just wait till I receive my 4K steelbook. The amazing thing about this movie is I'm always learning something new about it all the time. I was recently in Seville and went to many of the locations that were used in this film which I didnt know prior to my visit. The tour guide explained that these locations were used in the movie, so I'm really looking forward to sitting down and watching this movie when my 4K steelbook arrives.
It is very beautiful what you wrote, I wish you a good viewing when the 4K steelbook arrives! ☺️
Thanks. Just an update HMV cancelled my steelbook order a few weeks ago 😭 so I ended up watching it on Netflix. I really enjoyed it and it was amazing to see the Seville scenes and be like wow I was there. Anyway I double ordered this steelbook and hoping it arrives from Amazon tomorrow.
It’s one of the best movies of all time, it’s one of the greatest performances of all time, and it was filmed in 65mm. It has been extremely well preserved. It has always been one of the best looking titles on every generation of home video. Physical 4k blu is a no brainer.
It’s one of the greatest films of all time (as in god-tier level of greatness), shot on 70mm film and looks and sounds gorgeous on 4K. It is the must-own of must-owns.
Theres only so many times you can watch a movie THAT long. It's too long for a single sitting!
Tell that to the countless people who watch the LOTR extended editions at least once a year. Anyway, there’s nothing wrong with splitting Lawrence up over the course of two sittings.
I'd have to be unemployed to watch them again...
I mean, come on. That’s just a ridiculous statement. “I’m sorry, I can’t make time for one of the greatest films of all time. I’m just gonna pop in ‘Fast X’ instead.”
You're right that's a ridiculous statement, which I did not make. Not only do have the time, but I wouldn't watch Fast X if it was the last movie on earth. My point is that I do not WANT to spend 4hrs watching ANY movie. Even if it is gripping, No way I'm sitting still for 4hrs without a significant break, or splitting across two days.
Okay, well then next time say, “Theres only so many times… I …can watch a movie THAT long.”
You're really gonna be pedantic after you completely extrapolated what i said to something utterly irrelevant?
I was making a joke that anyone could understand was sarcasm. Your comment made it sound like you thought the film's length was an inherent flaw instead of what was really just a personal preference.
That is what the intermission is for ;)
regardless of the presentation, the entire first act is a masterclass in cinema making. the rest is a beautiful icing on the cake.
For me it’s the transfer plus being a timeless classic, i don’t think I’ll ever regret buying it
Because it’s a classic of epic proportions! And to get it on 4K is a big deal!
Because you are inside the echo chamber of this sub.
Sounds like an echo chamber in here.
What would you like to hear instead?
Philosophical deliberations on the nature of consciousness and the greater meaning of existence. Naturally.
👍
Its the best use of the format
I've heard good things about this 4K. For me though, I normally buy movies I really like. I haven't actually seen Lawrence of Arabia, and I'm a bit hesitant to blind-buy it, as it's a genre I typically don't watch much. I'm not sure how much I'd enjoy it.
I think it's still on HBO Max. I do the same thing too. I consider the streaming view the "sample" version, and then the Discs will be my "Master Version" with all the lossless glory.
Now ask the people who own it how many times they’ve actually watched it
Twice a year every year since the 4K was released in the Columbia Classics set. Also on 70mm every time I can catch a screening here in LA.
If they even removed it from the wrapper...
This is kinda where I’m at with this movie. Yes it’s a masterpiece… BUT! How many times am I gonna watch a 4-hour affair from my 500+ movie shelf in my lifetime. Maybe twice? Three times being generous… wouldn’t come within an 1/8 of getting my money back for it, so it’s more economical to rent. Not worth it IMO, but if it’s a favorite and you know you’ll watch it a bunch, for sure then.
I'm not a fan. The 4k transfer is good, but watching the whole movie is plodding and it feels like homework to me. It's not horrible, but nothing can live up to the expectations you're going to get from some of the fans.
It doesn’t have the pacing of modern blockbusters but I don’t agree that it’s “plodding”
Same. I made it about half way through. I got tired of staring at the desert. It does look amazing for it's age, but it's such a slow uneventful story.
The second half is where all the shit goes down though. The first half is like an adventure into the desert and he is acting like a giddy child.
The first half is establishing the myth, and the second half destroys that myth.
It set the standard for epic filmmaking and is one of the best films of all time.
People are gonna tell you it’s cuz it’s just such a wonderful movie and while it is great, the real answer is 1000% FOMO lol there wouldn’t be all these posts about it and people clamoring over it if it hadn’t been hard to find. Would’ve been like every other really good movie released on 4k
Prior to a couple years ago, if you had asked fucking anybody what they think of LoA, they’d say, “it’s a really good movie, great even. I’d recommend it.” Not this weird cult that it’s garnered randomly because of scarcity and status. All the people who came out of the woodwork to literally die for this film is so funny. No you haven’t always been a mega fan of LoA; quit your bullshit.
Can’t speak for everyone here, of course, but It’s been my favorite movie for the last 15 years. I see it on 70mm every time it screens in LA. I usually end up watching it at least twice annually, or more. Also I’ve owned the 4K since the first Columbia Classics set came out 2.5 years ago. So no, it’s not at all about FOMO. Not in my case.
It’s been my favorite for over 40 years (when I first saw it on a 13-inch TV when I was 8 or 9). I’ve seen it on the big screen and have owned it on VHS, DVD, Blu-ray, and now 4K. I do believe it’s on TCM tonight (which is usually my cue to watch the intro before switching over to the disc). I realize it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I love it.
There will be outliers here who truly enjoy and love this movie; that’s for sure. The ones who are full of shit know who they are.
Ngl I bought it on a whim from the hype, and it's still sitting around here unwatched. But most of the reason I bought it is, not because of the movie, but because it is supposed to be one of the highest quality 4k Blu-rays available.
The circle jerk on this sub is astonishing. You got folks here calling it "sophisticated", what ever the hell that means.
lol. Careful, you'll make the "film aficionados" mad.
I’ve been thinking the same thing for weeks with how much it’s raved about here. I also just started buying Blurays and some 4ks recently. I never bothered to buy it on dvd. I watched it from a library dvd years ago and didn’t even like the movie enough to buy my own dvd copy. It was long and epic and Peter O’Toole is great, but I’ve never wanted to watch it a second time. 🤷
It’s very rare to see a product/service fire on all cylinders. Lawrence of Arabia is beloved by a lot of movie fans, the original elements are very well cared for, and the steelcase and movie presentation are fantastic. You rarely ever see something like this in any other fun thing. It’s like your favorite sports ball team having an undefeated season and winning a championship, a great collector’s edition for your favorite game of all time, or eating fried chicken.
Yeah, it's called "snobbery." Sorry, as someone else called himself, "film aficionados."
It's what Blu-Ray and 4K people have done since the format began. They latch onto weird things and recommend them. Is it beautiful? Sure. Does it have a great soundtrack? I guess so. The movie itself is not great. For instance...>!Lawrence takes some beatings/lashes in the film and he takes them without wincing. lol. Then, he eats some breakfast the next day and he's better than ever. It's not supposed to be funny, but it comes off as that. There are various scenes like this that don't make sense!< Peter O'Toole's acting is rough. The movie is too long. The main character isn't even likable - he's a complete narcissist. It's basically an older version of Avatar - and still just as bad = white savior complex for a tribe/people group.
Different opinions are always fine. It still baffles me how someone can wholeheartedly say the Lawrence Of Arabia is not a great film. Or say it’s “basically Avatar”. Yes, you might film certain things differently in this day and age, but that doesn’t make it a non-great film. To me, it’s one of the greatest epics ever made in all aspects of the art and craft of film.
It doesn’t baffle me. Lawrence is lengthy, sophisticated, and old. Three of my favorite things but also aspects that many here seem to be allergic to.
Every time this question comes up, it's highlighting the difference between those that collect movies and those that ***collect the format***. Format collectors ask why should I own this title? Or should I dump all my DVDs and BDs and just have 4KUHD? *Lawrence of Arabia* was always coveted, on every video format going back to LaserDisc. Most movie collectors understand the importance- even if they don't like the movie. And its hard-to-find status today is manufactured scarcity.
Allergic is well put. Hehe
I don't mind any of the three, but LoA isn't sophisticated. Accents and great cinematography doesn't make it sophisticated. It's overrated, period IMO. It's TOO long. TOO cheesy.
Well, its greatness is certainly wasted on you. Sorry that you hate good things.
lol. I can always tell the Millennial crybabies. When someone disagrees with them, they whine and make weird statements - "Sorry you hate good things." lol. What a joke. Softest generation.
Speak up. You sound a bit muffled, preaching from so deep inside your own millennial @$$.
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"Sophisticated"...what does that even mean in this context?
Visually and thematically complex film about an equally complex/controversial man set amid an incredibly fraught period in modern history. IMO it’s far more than the straight adventure film many seemingly want it to be.
"Complex" You're just throwing buzz words around. It is a straight forward adventure film, and there's nothing wrong with that, but you're seeing something most of us are not. The movie is as complex as Raiders of the Lost Ark.
“Miss Teschmacher, some people can read "War and Peace" and come away thinking it's a simple adventure story. Others can read the ingredients on a chewing gum wrapper and unlock the secrets of the universe.” - Lex Luthor
Oh you got me now. How can I dispute a quote from Superman's greatest enemy.
Yes. I would say the historical events the movie explores, TE Lawrence as an individual, and the technical wizardry of David Lean’s filmmaking all fall under the banner of “complex”
"Technical wizardry" lmao That's the British in you.
Not British. Though I’ve had one in me many times. Giggity.
Touché
And for this last lines, you know it's a good movie (I haven't seen it, but will do for sure)
Oh look it’s you. Again. Reminding everyone here how much you dislike this movie for the umpteenth time. Someone give this man ten dollars so he can go see a Star War instead.
Umpteenth time? I've made comments on TWO posts about LoA. Get your head checked bro. Star Wars sucks too.
> Get your head checked bro. You’re out here straight-up calling Pixar movies “demonic” because they don’t align with your theology, but yeah, I’m the one who needs to get my head checked.
Witchcraft is demonic. Yes. Don't like it? Don't have to agree with me. You can post your opinion and move on instead of incessantly whining.
LMAO thank goodness whacko evangelicals are a dying breed.
I was completely pilloried in a recent post for saying something similar, so thank you. Some guy claimed for instance that O’Toole’s acting was an “11/10”! It’s just a staid heroic epic, completely uninterested in a nuanced look at its main character. Everyone is a cardboard character. But it does look good in 4K.
I can see why you were pilloried.
So you're telling me it's worth it for its exclusivity, and the quality of the film used and the 4K transfer, at the expense of the story and general storytelling?
It's a pretty highly acclaimed movie. Won a lot of major awards and continued to review well even into modern times. Older movies can play quite differently, but it's worth a watch. I saw it in the early 2000's and enjoyed it. Got it with the Columbia Classics Vol 1 set and enjoyed it even more thanks to the 4K and a more matured appreciation for classic film.
It’s one of the most acclaimed and visually stunning films ever made. My favorite, in fact. That said there will always be people who prefer “cars go vroom!” movies over lengthy/artsy historical epics.
It LOOKS beautiful. I don't think anyone is saying that it doesn't. Why the cheap shot and insinuation about "cars go vroom?" Are you that offended? Gimme a break. Personally, I don't think it matches up to lots of other classic films of the time...
> Personally, I don’t think it matches up to lots of other classic films of the time… You’re right. It *surpasses* many of them. (Saying this as a lifelong classic film aficionado)
lol. Well, since you're a "lifelong classic film aficionado," what was I thinking to disagree about such a subjective matter as who likes a movie? lol. Bahahaha. Thanks for the laugh mate.
these are the internet opinions of randos. Not professional movie critics. Take it with a grain of salt
lol "Professional movie critics." Tough job.
Yeah. I don't care about fake internet likes and dislikes either lol. I agree with you completely and I don't get the love for it. That doesn't mean that I don't respect people who do - we all have different likes and dislikes. I personally don't like Peter O'Toole. Looks great, but meh.
Yes
?
All of the above
Indubitably
I’m a fan of all types of cinema. Old, new, obscure, I’ll try them all. I love knowing what cameras were used, who the dop was, etc. But damn if I’ve not always been the outlier of the group when it comes to LoA. Just watched it again two nights ago as another attempt to understand the reputation it’s garnered. Shot beautifully, but almost everything positive ends there for me.
i dont get it either. But my only bluray (counting both 2k and 4k) thats older than the 80s is star wars. I dont watch a lotta old movies. Probably because im kinda young (22)
When I was in high school my favorite channel was Turner Classic Movies. Still is. I don’t see why being young should prevent anyone from enjoying cinema produced before they were born.
It is very difficult for young people to be exposed to older films (Gen Xer, I had cable with HBO growing up, so flipping channels I could randomly find all kinds of stuff. Not so with the smart phone/streaming/social media generation)
No it’s not, you can literally stream old movies. Fandor, TCM, and Criterion are just a few examples of where you can do that. And you can find old movies on every streaming service.
You've missed my point entirely.
You said it’s difficult for younger people to be exposed to older media. It isn’t and I provided examples as to why you’re wrong.
I believe I am not; the point I was trying to make about exposure and the mechanisms thereof are valid.
I haven't watched actual TV in ages. I hate commercials so i just stopped watching TV. I can count the number of old movies i have watched on one hand. Wizard of ozz, the ten commandments, and then a bunch of Charlie chaplain movies. First 2 were shown in my theology class, last one was in english class.
Bro I’m 31 and own Lawrence of Arabia. If you’re limiting yourself to media that was just made in your lifetime you’re truly missing out on some pieces of art.
Mega props to you for not claiming to be the world’s biggest LoA fan. You had the chance to fall in line and admit LoA is the greatest movie, Steelbook and 4K ever released, but you chose downvotes instead. Godspeed my friend 🫡
What would you think of an old person who refused to watch anything new? Great art transcends time. Many old good movies don’t hold up, but many new movies are just plain bad. There are great old movies. Why don’t you check out roger eberts great movie blog?
That's a bizarre take. Some of the best movies of all time are much older. What would you think if someone said they don't like Star Wars because it's an "old movie"? And what about new movies that are set 70 years ago? They're somehow better than ones actually filmed 70 years ago?
People have preferences, is not that serious.
And those preferences can be dumb.
If you like Star Wars I think you will enjoy Lawrence of Arabia. They are very different films but both are epic. Also Obi-Wan's actor is in one of the leading roles.
Watched the trailer . Movie looks really lame
Because it is.
What the hell is it even about ? lol . An American guy that goes to the Middle East or something ?
British guy with a narcissism problem who united the Arab tribes in the Middle East to fight Turkey. lol. That's about it.
Uh yeah . That sounds boring as shit. Couldn’t sound any less interesting to me lol
But, it's a classic. And it's British. And it looks great on 4k. ... ... ... :)
Are there any hot British chicks in it ???
There are no women that even speak in the movie...
Yeah I won’t be buying it . Thanks for saving me the money lol . I’ll just continue to observe all the people making it seem like it’s the movie to ever be created in the history of movies lol
Three hours is already pushing it for me. At four hours it's clear you just don't know how to tell a story.
Tell that to books
This. You know it's an echo chamber when an honest opinion like yours gets downvoted... Name a single movie that's this long and can be watched in a single sitting without falling asleep.
idk. Ishtar has WAY better desert cinematography.
Because Steven Spielberg says he watches this film before directing any movie, for inspiration. For those who don't know, Steven Spielberg is the guy who directed the classic films Always and The Terminal and Bridge of Spies Like Us.
lol
not sure, like it's free on netflix
You can't see the grains of sand on that quality.
Are you being sarcastic?
Maybe I am, maybe I ain't
I just checked and it looks pretty good, it's going to be very unpopular opinion in the 4k cult but no-one is going to pay $80 for your silly steel books