Masterpieces Classics: Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

After completing The Bridge on the River Kwai, David Lean completed his hefty and masterful Lawrence of Arabia. It is equally perfect as it is ambitious and long.

One main reason of its success is Peter O'Toole's killer debut. His performance is the greatest of all time according to Premiere Magazine. O'Toole has not one an Oscar yet, but the performance is so consistent and moody, it deserves two!

Masterpieces Classics: The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)

They've been working on the railroad.

I think though the script for this film is excellent, the most reasonable, or even important line is the last. "Madness, madness!"

First and foremost, what is The Bridge on the River Kwai? It is the perfect description of madness, in each and every character.

The main character of madness is Col. Nicholson, played by Academy-Award winning Alec Guinness, who decides to stop slacking, and build a bridge for the Japanese. It's a confusing decision, and isn't considered the first act of madness for nothing.

The second character of madness is the Japanese officer himself, Col. Saito. He is the man, that believes the British would actually build them a bridge. Saito, on a deadline, needs to build a bridge or he'll be forced to commit suicide. But dependence on the enemy? Madness!