David Leans 1962 desert epic is being shown in its restored, re-edited 1989 print, and its well worth the three-plus hours to experience its wide-screen majesty. Peter OToole captures the charismatic yet flawed leader of British-sponsored pre-war Arab insurrectionheroic, weak, sadistic, and alluring at once. The winner of seven Oscars, Lawrence is deservedly renowned for Freddie Youngs cinematography, but its Robert Bolts script that elevates it above contemporary imitators. Unlike the screen-filling, eye-popping spectaculars of today, this film grounds the epic in the mannot the terrain sprawling beneath his feet. It also doesnt hurt that in support of OToole are Alec Guinness, Omar Sharif, and Anthony Quinn. And theres no place youd rather see the 70mm format movie than on Seattles grandest screen. On to Aqaba! (NR) BRIAN MILLER
Sun., April 12, noon, 2009