Its Great, It Really Is

Rating: 9/10 (23 May 2019)

How do you review a movie like Gone With the Wind in this day in age? There are scenes that are very hard for me to watch. Such as the "I don't know nothing bout birthin no babies" line. Yes, it is a classic line, but that whole scene just made me cringe. With that being said, when looking at the film in context, you have one of the most fantastic achievements in film history.
It is no wonder that despite controversy, this film has remained one of the most beloved of all time. The acting is brilliant. Vivian Leigh was never better, Gable is both lovable and detestable at once. Olivia De Havilland is spectacular. And of course there is Hattie McDaniel. Is it a stereotypical performance? Well, absolutely! However, I must admit, she is wonderful in this movie. She is the voice of reason for the main characters in this movie. Her Academy Award winning performance was a huge milestone that I feel goes underappreciated. The only lead actor who I feel does not shine is Leslie Howard. He is just okay. He had a hard time keeping his British accent in check while playing a southern man. He is great in other films I've seen him in, but here is not one of his better moments.
When it was being made, it is easy to say that it was the biggest movie ever for its time, To put it in modern context, it was the Avengers: Endgame of its day. If you adjust for inflation, it is still the highest grossing film of all time.
Three different directors worked on this movie, and while this would be a hindrance to most movies, but it somehow helps here.
One of the best parts of the film is the amazing cinematography. This movie is full of great shots that are still imitated today. Let us not forget the incredible musical score by Max Steiner, a man who contributed scores to many other great films. The main theme is easily one of the best in movie history. The themes of survival and a changing world also ring in strong. Despite the movie taking place during one specific place and time, I feel that its themes transcend boarders and time periods.
Is Gone With the Wind the best movie ever? No. I can think of several better movies (Citizen Kane, The Godfather, In the Heat of the Night, Star Wars, Lawrence of Arabia, The Bridge on the River Kwai etc). And some of its politics are pretty outdated. However, It is an overall fantastic movie that should be watched at least once by anyone. Do yourself a favor and give this movie a shot. Or don't, frankly my dear, I don't give a damn.