unreal

Rating: Null/10 (8 July 2003)

It's probably one of the most famous film making stories that Vivien Leigh was 'at the right place at the right time.' I've heard her often quoted as saying, "I read the (book and) i knew i was going to play her." (that isn't a direct quote...but you get the drift). And boy i'm glad she thought that. If you believe in reincarnation, then Vivien Leigh was Scarlett O'Hara in a past life and has created a memorable screen heroine. Feminists should be dancing the Charleston in rejoice. Never have i seen a more engaging character on screen. Nor a more engaging drama. This is more than just a 'great' romance. (I say that probably because i'm not a romantic- ironic, seeing that this is my favourite movie). Not to sound soppy, but this is a movie about the human spirit, about endurance, our ability to survive and also about human nature. Yes, Scarlett may seem to be selfish, a human trait, but that it what is so intriguing about her character. The honest approach to humanity- acknowledging our faults as represented through Scarlett, as well as our positives- represented through Melanie, makes this story so engaging. We see that humanity is strong (both lead actresses are, as are the males - except maybe poor old Ashley Wilkes-lol)which may seem ironic in that it is set against the backdrop of war. The last scenes are unforgettable. Leigh as Scarlett strips away her glamour, showing the strength of her acting abilities when she cries out her famous lines at the bottom of the staircase. Again, this reinforces and reminds us of the ties to the land that we must hold, especially in this increasingly globalised, consumerist, materialist world we live in. This is an uplifting movie, and although sad, the war is a perfect backdrop for humanity's triumph. Scarlett has been described as the most famous screen villan--- she's my hero.