Lawrence of Arabia tells the true story of British military man and world traveler T.E. Lawrence and his escapades in the Middle East. Set during World War I, Lawrence ventures to Turkey to find Prince Faisal and assist him in his revolution against the Ottomans in the region. A “sideshow of a sideshow” to the greater story of the first world War, the Arab Revolt nevertheless changed the Middle East forever, dissecting the multi-ethnic empire of the Ottomans into a multitude of states based on nationality, tribe, and historical boundaries. 
The film itself, over three hours long, is an epic journey that takes too many different themes to put into a short Collegiate Lenses. The themes of colonialism are ever-present in the decadent scenes of the British Egyptian command, with ancient busts and statues littering the regal rooms. Contrast that with the empty scenes of the deserts, and claustrophobic views inside Bedouin tents. Meanwhile, the entire story unfolds through the perspective of an individual who, at times, seems to enjoy the quaint life of adventure, and worries 
himself about becoming a savage similar to the people he apparently idolizes. In all, Lawrence of Arabia is too encompassing to describe beyond a great journey. No matter how much may not be accurate, it’s at least a beautiful representation of a conflict that otherwise may have been lost due to disinterest.
Lawrence of Arabia Drinking Game Rules:
Take a drink…
- If there’s a closeup on Lawrence’s beautiful eyes
- When a named character is killed
- If Lawrence has trouble remaining sane
- Whenever characters drink, twice if its from a well
- If an argument breaks out
- For every shot Lawrence fires
Take this list as a suggestion, and drink responsibly. As always, enjoy the show.
Check out the rest of Spire Magazine’s Collegiate Lenses series.
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