In commemoration of its 50th anniversary, Columbia Pictures have digitally restored David Lean‘s 1962 epic, Lawrence of Arabia, and intend to hold a theatrical re-release on October 4th. This is the same 4K restoration that played at Cannes back in May — the responses were minimal, but enthusiastic nonetheless — though the true extent of its “nationwide” release has not been made clear. [USA Today]

Now, I’d obviously prefer they find a way to (despite this being impossible) screen it in 70mm and jettison the digital conversion altogether — but, at the very least, Sony have made a wise move and presented Lean‘s 222-minute director’s cut while they’re at it. If you miss out on that experience, take some solace in knowing they’ll give it a long-awaited Blu-ray release on November 13th; even if you get to see it in a theater, that’s more or less something you’re required to eventually snatch up.

It’s all part of a mini-Arabia renaissance, what with tonight’s screening at LAMPAS and a Turner Classic Movies showing on November 16th all reminding us of the film’s epic power and thrilling story. Or, rather: If you’ve yet to see Lawrence of Arabia, the right people are insuring you’ll correct this error in the very near future.

Do you hope to see Lawrence of Arabia when it comes back around? Will it be the best film to play in a theater this year?