STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK

Magic Lantern Cinemas, now celebrating its Golden Anniversary, will screen another golden goodie—“Lawrence of Arabia” on Sunday and Monday, Aug. 11-12.

The three-plus hour award-winning biographical and adventure drama film based on T.E. Lawrence’s leadership in the Arabian conflict during World War I will be shown at 7 p.m. both nights.

The film—made for the big screen—was directed by David Lean, whose gorgeous cinematography includes “Dr. Zhivago” and “Bridge on the River Kwai.”

Lawrence, a British officer, was sent to convince Prince Faisal that his tribe and others should join the fight against the Ottoman Turks during World War I. His journey across a blazing hot, punishing desert impresses the prince and they bond.

Lawrence goes rogue against British orders while succeeding in his mission with his Arab friends.

The film is as relevant today as it was when it came out in 1962, said Rick Kessler, who owns the Magic Lantern Cinemas.

“Lawrence been referred to as a bold, mad act of genius,” Kessler said. “And the cast, which includes phenomenal actors Peter O’Toole, Omar Sharif, Anthony Quinn and Alec Guiness, is superb and captivating.  Yes, you could view this glorious film on your television, but what a crime that would be.  The big screen gives the work its full due and majesty.  This experience is on the short list of things that must be done during the lifetime of every lover of cinema.”