I just watched Doctor Zhivago, another of David Lean’s (he directed Lawrence of Arabia) great works over the course of two nights, and as the film came to a resounding conclusion I felt, for the first time, absolutely confused. My emotions were in a roil, I didn’t know whether to cry or to be happy about what the film’s ending implied. All I knew was that I had seen another David Lean masterpiece.

Doctor Zhivago would ultimately lose Best Picture to The Sound of Music and I absolutely agree with that choice. Doctor Zhivago is an epic romance of two forbidden lovers who juggle their affection for one another through the throes of World War I and the October Revolution.

Unlike most movies that feature moments of joy and sometimes sadness, Doctor Zhivago never fully brightens. The story only gets worse and worse and worse until, by the end, you’re slightly depressed. Just slightly.

Oscar-nominated actor Omar Sharif and Oscar-winning actress Julie Christie really grab this story by the reins and help guide it to a place where you are intrigued in both of their stories rather than being bored with the various scenarios.

I’m so glad I watched this film and I’m very excited to see more David Lean movies in the future, namely The Bridge on the River Kwai which should be another great experience.

I’m giving this movie 95 out of 100 and 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s not the best movie I’ve ever seen but it definitely has its lovable qualities, namely David Lean’s extraordinary directorial vision which, after Doctor Zhivago, is personally one of the best I’ve ever seen.

I thank you for reading and I hope you have a splendid day.