David Lean’s Doctor Zhivago (1965) is an epic in every sense of the word – a sprawling three-hour saga of love, loss, and revolution set against the tumultuous backdrop of early 20th century Russia. While the film is celebrated for its breathtaking cinematography, grand production design, and the sweeping romance between Yuri Zhivago (Omar Sharif) and Lara Antipova, it’s impossible to discuss Doctor Zhivago without acknowledging the luminous presence of Julie Christie as Lara. Her portrayal is not just a cornerstone of the film; it’s a masterclass in embodying a character whose strength and vulnerability captivate audiences even decades later.
Christie’s Lara enters the narrative with a dramatic weight, navigating a complex and dangerous relationship with her mother’s friend, Komarovsky. Even before she meets Yuri, Lara’s story is compelling, imbued with a resilience that hints at the hardships she will endure. This initial portrayal firmly establishes Lara as more than just a romantic interest; she is a woman shaped by circumstance, striving for agency in a world rapidly changing around her. Julie Christie embodies this complexity with a nuanced performance that is both delicate and powerful.
The visual splendor of Doctor Zhivago is undeniable, and cinematographer Freddie Young’s work deserves every accolade. However, beyond the wide shots of Moscow streets and snow-laden landscapes, Young’s lens also captures the intimate beauty of Christie. Whether in the bustling city or the vast Russian countryside, Lara remains a focal point, her presence illuminating every scene.
Daniel Walber has eloquently detailed the film’s Oscar-winning production design, and it’s within this meticulously crafted world that Julie Christie truly shines. But perhaps even more unforgettable are Phyllis Dalton’s Oscar-nominated costume designs. The clothes worn by Julie Christie as Lara are iconic, perfectly encapsulating the blend of high fashion and practicality demanded by the Russian winter and the societal upheaval.
It’s no surprise that in 1965, the year of Doctor Zhivago‘s release, both Academy Award categories for Costume Design were won by films featuring Julie Christie (Darling also won for Costume Design – Black and White). Lara’s wardrobe, from sleek dresses to cozy winter wear, has left an indelible mark on cinematic fashion. Christie’s portrayal makes Lara a style icon, even amidst the historical setting, demonstrating the timeless appeal of her look and Dalton’s designs.
Beyond the fashion and visual appeal, the heart of Doctor Zhivago lies in the passionate and tumultuous romance between Yuri and Lara. The film dedicates considerable time to establishing their individual lives before their paths converge, making their eventual connection all the more impactful. While Omar Sharif’s Yuri is the titular character, Julie Christie’s Lara is the emotional anchor of the narrative in many ways. Her early storyline, marked by scandal and societal constraints, arguably holds more dramatic weight than Yuri’s initial narrative.
When Yuri and Lara finally meet and fall in love, the chemistry between Julie Christie and Omar Sharif is palpable. They are, as noted in the original review, incredibly attractive, and their on-screen connection ignites the screen. The scenes in the abandoned Variykino manor are particularly enchanting, the frost-covered interiors adding to the romantic and almost ethereal atmosphere of their secluded world. This section of the film showcases Christie’s ability to convey both intense passion and deep vulnerability, making Lara’s love for Yuri both believable and deeply moving.
Doctor Zhivago is undoubtedly a grand cinematic achievement, a testament to the epic filmmaking of the 1960s. And at the heart of this epic is Julie Christie’s unforgettable performance. While the film explores themes of revolution, war, and societal change, it is Lara’s journey, brought to life by Christie’s captivating performance, that truly resonates. She embodies a woman caught in the currents of history, yet retaining her strength, beauty, and capacity for love. Julie Christie in Doctor Zhivago is more than just a beautiful face in a beautiful film; she is the soul of the story, making it a timeless classic that continues to captivate viewers.
