Viewed in
2010
Premise
Based on a novel (that I never read) about a Russian doctor struggling with his affairs during war and revolution before the Soviet Union.
Liked
The vast landscapes, the cast.
Disliked
The score.
Thoughts
A pretty good film.
Similar to director David Lean's other famous work, the cinematography and colors were a feast for the eyes. There were numerous extreme long shots, showing the stark contrast between insignificance of humans and magnificence of mountains. It would have been awesome to watch in a theater.
Omar Sharif was cool as Zhivago. I was glad to see him in a leading role. Both female leads were charming and, thanks to the writing, I found it difficult to hate either one, despite both were involved in the triangle. In fact, Zhivago was kind of unlikable for cheating on both of them. Rod Steiger was quite a presence as the sleazy Komarovsky. Sadly, Sir Alec Guinness was not much.
The plot was okay, I guess. Here, the history was just a background. While the plot devices to put together and pull apart characters felt dated and unrealistic, I thought the three characters involved in the triangle were crafted with care.
My complaint would be the film score. For some reason I found the theme repetitive and annoying. Maybe if it was more memorable, like Gone With the Wind's, then I might not have minded as much.
Clocking in at three hours, twenty minutes, it was a pretty solid epic thanks to pretty visuals and likable cast. I just do not think it was as cool or re-watchable as Lawrence of Arabia.
What I would change
Nothing.
