A reasonable film !

Rating: 7/10 (24 June 2001)

This legendarily popular epic romantic melodrama is in my opinion far from the greatest picture ever made, but is certainly a fine lavish spectacle. It would've been better if I'd viewed it in a cinema, as the photography was clearly luxurious and didn't best suit the small screen. The music is rather fitting, embellishing the emotions of the film well. I thought the historical period was well established, even if one should treat its accuracy as questionable. As for the political correctness, the attitudes and situations prevalent in the film regarding gender and race are redolent of earlier times and cannot be judged in view of today's standards. If it were made similarly today, one would suspect some indignation would arise, and probably be justifiable. I suppose it's the factor of the black slaves being so unrealistically happy in their place that seems historically questionable to me. The film's acting was mixed really; despite its length certain performers either fail to leave an adequate impression (Leslie Howard) or aren't given enough to do (Thomas Mitchell). Vivien Leigh creates a far from particularly nuanced role, but an effective one. Scarlett is indeed a rather flawed, stroppy girl, but one is compelled to follow her miseries with interest. Clark Gable truly gives the finest performance here though, creating a wonderfully wry, suave and likeable character. The plot itself is unspectacular, with aspects of the romantic entanglements not convincing as they should, largely due to Leslie Howard's below-par performance. The extent of Scarlett's self-delusion/misguidedness seems unlikely, even for her character. The length of the film was no problem really, as my interest was largely maintained. I would say the earlier part of the film, before the War is indeed the most cinematically accomplished part, with a good atmosphere well created, and the plot moves on quicker later on, with the numerous tragedies and episodes being well conveyed. There is a fine ending, although it should have ended straight after Gable's "Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn!" ripsote. Clark Gable's fine acting, a steady storyline, fine music and photography are the aspects of this film that most impressed. I wouldn't call it overrated as such, because it is indeed a cinematic milestone, but there are better old films out there, and of the two major popular successes of the year 1939, I find "The Wizard of Oz" more enjoyable. Rating:- *** 1/2/*****