There are times women need to hush up.

In all of this epic film's 227-minute running time, there isn't a single woman with a speaking part -- not that the men leave them with much to say. Lean's much-debated version of the life and times of the undeniably incredible British solider TE Lawrence, who gained widespread fame because of his role during the Arab Revolt of 1916-18, is a masterclass in filmmaking. Each crewmember seems to be trying to outdo the others with their detailing, drive and passion -- and the effort shows.

Anthony Quinn, for example, was so immersed in his role as Auda abu Tayi, the fearsome Huwaytat chieftain, that he spent ages looking at research photographs to replicate the look, doing his own make-up. Legend goes that the first time he showed up on set in full Auda regalia, Lean was thunderstruck and, assuming him to be a native, immediately asked an assistant to inform Quinn that he would have to be replaced.

Quinn, Alec Guinness and Omar Sharif all handed in top-notch performances, and Peter O'Toole was simply stellar as the protagonist. Maurice Jarre's sweeping score, performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, ably complemented Freddie Young's ambitious 70mm cinematography. A truly, truly special film.

Instead of the stunning war moments, here's a great dialogue scene that says a lot about Lawrence: Click here for video.

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