A classic

Rating: 10/10 (8 November 2009)

I have not read the novel upon which this is based. Even though I've only just now seen this, I've known about a ton of scenes for years. This has been referenced and spoofed countless times, a sure sign that it has simply become part of popular culture. Everybody knows this, and it sure is difficult to argue with its greatness or its massive influence on movie-making. This film has an epic scope, and is a fantastic, sweeping love story. The pacing is spot-on, and while this has a running time of around three hours and forty minutes, it is never boring. It is simply so engaging and interesting. All roles are well-cast, and the acting is flawless. Leigh is impeccable, as is Gable, and frankly, everyone else. The characters are well-written, marvelously developed and their actions and, where applicable, growth, ring true as being entirely credible. Dialog has utterly golden, unforgettable and quotable lines, and is always delivered to perfection. The music is a grand, instrumental score. This is well-edited throughout, and the cinematography is excellent. There is some violent content in this, as well as the singular use of mild language that we all know. Sexuality is at most hinted at. I recommend this to everyone. 10/10