Question 1

Why was Lawrence of Arabia banned in many Arab countries, and how was it eventually released in Egypt?

Accepted Answer

It was banned as Arab countries felt historical figures and peoples were misrepresented. Omar Sharif arranged a viewing with President Gamal Abdel Nasser, who loved it and allowed its release in Egypt, where it became a huge hit.

Question 2

How did King Hussein of Jordan contribute to the film's production, and what personal connection emerged from the sets?

Accepted Answer

King Hussein lent an entire brigade of his Arab Legion as extras, so most soldiers are real soldiers. He frequently visited sets and became enamored with a British secretary, Antoinette Gardiner, who became his second wife in 1962.

Question 3

What special lens was created for Omar Sharif's mirage entrance scene, and what is it known as today?

Accepted Answer

Cinematographer Freddie Young used a special 482mm Panavision lens created specifically for this shot. Panavision still has it, and it's known among cinematographers as the 'David Lean lens'.

Question 4

How did Peter O'Toole adapt to camel riding, and what nickname did he earn from the Bedouin extras?

Accepted Answer

After initial discomfort, O'Toole mastered camel riding by adding sponge rubber under the saddle to ease his bruises. This innovation was adopted by Bedouin extras, who nicknamed him 'ab al-'Isfanjah' ('father of the sponge').

Question 5

What visual technique did director David Lean use to emphasize the journey in Lawrence of Arabia?

Accepted Answer

Almost all movement in the film goes from left to right. Lean said he did this to emphasize that the movie was a journey.

Lawrence of Arabia

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