Fresno Famous

One of the most popular and influential films in the history of cinema and one of the last true Hollywood epic spectaculars returns to the silver screen with “Lawrence of Arabia 50th Anniversary Event: Digitally Restored” on Thursday, October 4 at 7 p.m. at Edwards Theatre.

“Lawrence of Arabia” stars Peter O’Toole in his career-making performance as T.E. Lawrence. In this true story, Lawrence, a young, idealistic British officer in WWI, is assigned to the camp of Prince Feisal, an Arab tribal chieftain and leader in a revolt against the Turks. In a series of brilliant tactical maneuvers, Lawrence leads 50 of Feisal's men in a tortured three week crossing of the Nefud Desert to attack the strategic Turkish-held port of Aqaba. Following his successful raids against Turkish troops and trains, Lawrence’s triumphant leadership and unyielding courage gain him nearly god-like status among his Arab brothers.

Presented by NCM Fathom Events and Sony Pictures Entertainment, the film was meticulously restored by Sony Pictures Entertainment in 4K at Sony Pictures’ Colorworks from the original 65mm negative. This special event features an exclusive introduction from “Lawrence of Arabia” star and Academy Award nominee Omar Sharif. The event will include newsreel footage of the New York premiere as stars arrive on the red carpet, as well as footage of King Hussein visiting the film set in Aqaba where he met David Lean, Sam Spiegel and Peter O’Toole Academy Award-winning Director Martin Scorsese (Best Director, “The Departed,”2006) will also discuss the overarching themes of “Lawrence of Arabia” and its influence on other iconic films.

Tickets for “Lawrence of Arabia 50th Anniversary Event: Digitally Restored” are available at the Edwards Theatre box office and online at www.FathomEvents.com. The event will be presented using new digital cinema projection systems in more than 630 select movie theaters around the country, including Fresno’s Edwards Theatre.

Winner of seven Academy Awards including Best Picture of 1962, “Lawrence of Arabia” is considered one of the most timeless and essential motion picture masterpieces. The greatest achievement of its legendary, Oscar-winning director David Lean (“Lawrence of Arabia,” “The Bridge on the River Kwai”), the film has been honored as the No. 7 film on the American Film Institute’s (AFI) list of the “100 Greatest Movies of All Time.” 

 “’Lawrence of Arabia’ deserves a spectacular golden anniversary celebration on the silver screen,” says Shelly Maxwell, executive vice president of Fathom Events. “This epic film starring Peter O’Toole and Omar Sharif is one of the greatest films in the history of cinema with special footage that fans won’t want to miss.”

An epic of this nature must truly be seen on the big screen. Small screens can’t capture the nuances and grandeur of a film of this scope. The cinematography is breathtaking and the unforgettable score will soar through your mind eternally. Don’t miss this rare chance to catch “Lawrence of Arabia” on the big screen at 7 p.m. Oct. 4 at the Edwards Theatre.

Here is a trailer for the event:

http://youtu.be/3987pwNzC24

And here is a link to the original trailer:

http://youtu.be/IDF0at7sC0M