'Lawrence of Arabia' to Conquer the Big Screen Once More

Movie goers have a stark choice to make Thursday.

They can watch a whimsical tale of Dracula and his teen daughter (“Hotel Transylvania”), see a pair of cops working the beat (“End of Watch”) or witness one of Hollywood’s greatest epics back on the big screen where it belongs.

The 1962 classic “Lawrence of Arabia” returns to theaters for one day this week, part of a promotional effort to mark the film’s Nov. 13 Blu-ray release.

“Lawrence of Arabia 50th Anniversary Event: Digitally Restored” will play at 7 p.m. Thursday along with special matinees in select theaters.

This special event features an exclusive introduction from “Lawrence of Arabia” star Omar Sharif and include newsreel footage of the New York premiere as stars arrive on the red carpet, as well as footage of King Hussein visiting the film set in Aqaba where he met David Lean, Sam Spiegel and Peter O’Toole.

Tickets can be purchased at both participating theater box offices and online at Fathom Events.

Winner of seven Academy Awards including Best Picture, “Lawrence of Arabia” is considered one of the most timeless and essential motion picture masterpieces.

O’Toole stars as T.E. Lawrence, a young, idealistic British officer in WWI assigned to the camp of Prince Feisal, an Arab tribal chieftain and leader in a revolt against the Turks. In a series of brilliant tactical maneuvers, Lawrence leads 50 of Feisal’s men in a tortured three-week crossing of the Nefud Desert to attack the strategic Turkish-held port of Aqaba. Following his successful raids against Turkish troops and trains, Lawrence’s triumphant leadership and unyielding courage gain him nearly god-like status among his Arab brothers.

The “Lawrence of Arabia” limited-edition, four-disc collector’s Gift Set includes three Blu-ray discs, plus a CD of the original soundtrack featuring previously unreleased tracks. Other special items include an authentic 70mm film frame (newly printed and numbered) and an 88-page hard-bound coffee table book that features rarely seen photos, the film’s history and significance and insight into the making of the film.