A cinematic 'masterpiece' that has captivated audiences for over six decades is set to grace television screens across the UK today. The BBC will broadcast the sweeping historical romance Doctor Zhivago, a film celebrated for its epic scale and enduring love story, this afternoon.
A Timeless Epic of Love and Revolution
Released in 1965 and directed by the legendary David Lean, fresh from his success with Lawrence of Arabia, the film is an adaptation of Boris Pasternak's novel. It tells the story of Yuri Zhivago (Omar Sharif), a physician and poet, whose life is torn apart by the tumult of the Russian Revolution. His complex love for the beautiful Lara Guishar (Julie Christie) unfolds against a backdrop of war and social upheaval, a romance further complicated by his marriage to his cousin, Tonya (Geraldine Chaplin).
The production was one of the most ambitious of its era, with a final cost exceeding $11 million. This enormous budget was largely due to the logistical challenge of recreating a Russian winter in Spain. The investment paid off, creating a visually stunning film that won five Academy Awards from ten nominations.
Critical Acclaim and Lasting Legacy
While some contemporary critics found its length daunting and questioned its focus on romance over politics, the film's reputation has only grown with time. It triumphed at the Oscars, winning for Cinematography, Art Direction, Costume Design, Music Score, and Adapted Screenplay.
Modern audiences continue to hail it as a landmark achievement. On review aggregator sites, fans praise its transporting power. "Transports you straight into Russia and the love story that is Dr Zhivago," wrote one reviewer, calling it "an epic that keeps you watching until the end." Another noted, "This film retains all its romance and mystery even after all these years." The consensus is clear: this is a film that has stood the test of time.
Where and When to Watch
Viewers can immerse themselves in this iconic story on BBC Two at 2.55pm on Monday 22 December. It offers a perfect opportunity to experience a grand, old-fashioned cinematic event from the comfort of home, a film that reminds us why some stories truly are timeless.
