If you like rich brats and racists . . .

Rating: 5/10 (1 January 2004)

Shot before our country got enough sense to integrate, this film celebrates Old Southern (Civil War) society, slavery and all. Topping off the already repugnant theme of the film, the lead female character is a rich brat who lacks the common sense to know a good thing when she sees it. The upshot of all this is that South still loses the war (thank goodness) and our Southern Bell doesn't get the guy in the end because she jilts him one too many times.
To be sure, the film is visually stunning and (particularly for its time) is beautifully shot. Clark Gable turns in a terrific performance as the handsome and rugged Rhett Butler. Unfortunately, Vivien Leigh (Scarlett O'Hara) is no match for him on the screen. Hattie McDaniel's performance as Mammy is also noteworthy not only because it was expertly carried out, but also because it (in ironic contrast to the story of the film) is a celebrated moment for African-American actors.
At the end of the day, this is a pretty picture with a great performance be a Hollywood legend that is marred by its terrible flawed message. Frankly, I don't give a damn about this film.