Reviews

I feel this is the best film I have seen for a very long time. As a UK BAFTA member had I have seen it in competition earlier this year (and I don't know why it was not BAFTA nominated) I would have cast my vote for it in most major categories....particularly Direction, Editing, Performances, Design, Make up, Costume, Music and more, even Best Film.

The only criticism I have is the title....and this may have held it back from popular interest. Luckily a friend in the industry tipped me off that it was an exceptional movie and I feel without doubt it definitely is, so I am tipping you off...go and see it! Stunning performances from the entire cast. Thank goodness we can still produce movies as entertaining as this one!

In 1979 I was the Sound Recordist on 'Lion of The Desert' film of the film so had first hand experience of this terrific Production.

Moustapha Akkad is a first class Producer and the facilities he provided for the unit in the middle of the Libyan Desert were fantastic. I mention this because it had a strong influence on the subsequent quality of the film. I was recordist on the interviews and PR documentary material for this great film and I am proud to have been involved with it.

I had first hand experience with Anthony Quinn during the shoot. He was totally dedicated to his role. Olly Reed was able to put up a good performance but did give us a few problems with his usual antics! The rest of the cast were brilliant and the result impressive.

The scale of this Production was incredible and the thought that went into the organisation of it was amazing.

If you would like me to answer any further questions about this, please leave messages on my notice board. Look me up under Lionel Strutt. I did not receive a direct named credit on this production because I was working, as I said, on the film of the film or TV documentary. However I did spend months in the desert with the production and crew. So can relate a few interesting stories!