Lion of the Desert (1981)

Now Streaming

Watch Now

17/04/1981 (LY)•History, War, Drama•2h 53m

User
Score
Play Trailer

He was a man of honor in a war without any.

Overview

This movie tells the story of Omar Mukhtar, an Arab Muslim rebel who fought against the Italian conquest of Libya during the second Italo-Senussi War. It gives western viewers a glimpse into this little-known region and chapter of history, and exposes the savage means by which the conquering army attempted to subdue the natives.

Top Billed Cast

Anthony Quinn
Omar Mukhtar
Rod Steiger
Benito Mussolini
Oliver Reed
Gen. Rodolfo Graziani
Irene Papas
Mabrouka
Raf Vallone
Colonel Diodiece
John Gielgud
Sharif El Gariani
Andrew Keir
Salem
Gastone Moschin
Major Tomelli
Stefano Patrizi
Lt. Sandrini

Social

Reviews 2

A review by Wuchak

5.0

Written by Wuchak on May 25, 2019

***“Braveheart” in the Libyan desert with Quinn, Reed and Steiger*** After twenty years of failing to remove Bedouin rebels during the Italian colonization (aka invasion) of Libya, Mussolini (Rod Steiger) sends formidable General Graziani (Oliver Reed) in 1931 to take care of the problem. Anthony Quinn plays the titular protagonist and leader of the freedom-fighting Libyans. Did you ever wonder why “Lion of the Desert” (1980) is so obscure? It cost $35 million, has three big name stars, was shot on location and is epic in scope, but it only grossed $1 million worldwide and sits alongside...