Set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution and the subsequent civil war, the film follows the life of Yuri Zhivago, a physician and poet, who finds himself torn between his love for Lara, a beautiful young woman, and his commitment to his wife, Tonya. Their love story unfolds amidst the chaos and turmoil of a country undergoing massive social upheaval.

The film is renowned for its sweeping cinematography, capturing the vastness of the Russian landscape, as well as its rich, emotional storytelling. Lean’s direction combined with Maurice Jarre’s haunting score, particularly the iconic “Lara’s Theme,” enhances the film’s poignant and melancholic atmosphere.

Doctor Zhivago explores themes of love, loss, and the impact of historical events on individual lives. It examines the struggles of ordinary people during a time of great change, depicting the harsh realities of war and revolution while also celebrating the enduring power of love and art.

Upon its release, the film was a commercial success, though it faced criticism from some quarters for its portrayal of historical events. Despite this, it has since become a classic, celebrated for its grand scale, performances, and emotional depth. Doctor Zhivago received several Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Score. Its legacy endures as one of the great romantic epics in cinema history.