The wind done gone

Rating: 8/10 (16 November 2006)

What a film - watched the digitally remastered version recently, after years of avoiding the film out of a misplaced preconception of it as being one of the first chick-flicks, full of saccharin sentimentality and for those who like their handkerchief wet all the way through. It really isn't like that, although have to admit my feminine side was stirred by the rich colours of the sumptuous ball-gowns in the early dancing scenes. Scarlett O'Hara is a total bitch - what a character. You want to see her fall flat on her face from early in the film onwards, but you keep watching and can't help admiring when she somehow survives and even thrives while most of those around her are suffering terribly. Clark Gable is a dude who would grace the modern film, or films of any era. Olivia De Havilland is quietly, radiantly beautiful, and even the usually boring Leslie Howard makes the rather dull role of Ashley Wilkes come to life. The digital remastering makes this 67-year-old film look like it was made in the 90s - the burning of Atlanta is vivid and impressive. The camera-work / cinematography throughout is tremendous. This film definitely deserves its reputation as a major event in the history of cinema.