David Lean was a unique figure amongst directors: He made war movies that weren't about the wars, but rather the people involved. Therefore, he was able to make numerous films that had incredible stories and character development, but still featured the action and adventure commonly associated with war movies. Additionally, he made adaptions of several literary classics (especially Dickens' works) and a romantic comedy. Hmmm... adaption of famous literary work... action... adventure... romance... and character driven. Where have I heard that before? Yep. This guy would've made an amazing Bond movie.