Excellent classic film

Rating: 10/10 (30 September 2008)

There's very little to say about "Gone With the Wind," that hasn't already been said a million times before. Nevertheless, it is excellent, probably one of the best films of all time. It tells the story of Scarlett O'Hara (Vivien Leigh) and how she deals with a long-time struggle trying to get the man she loves (Ashley, played by Leslie Howard) to fall in love with her, unaware that the whole time she is actually falling in love with Rhett Butler (Clark Gable), the tough-yet-romantic character who she thought would never appeal to her. Vivien Leigh is perfectly cast here, in an Oscar-winning role in this Best Picture of 1939. She makes the character of Scarlett believable and lovable, despite the over-controlling and selfish nature she often possesses. Gable was robbed of an Oscar here, as he plays one of the most engaging, tough, and fun characters ever seen on film, delivering one great line after another (down to his famous "Frankly, my dear..."). The supporting cast, particularly Oscar-winner Hattie McDaniel as Mammy, is perfect, and really makes the film. It's a long film, over four hours long, yet those four hours fly by as you get caught up in the drama and fascinating story of Scarlett. It's truly a classic and one film movie lovers cannot miss. Very close to perfection, composed of one great scene after another.
**** out of ****