Gone with the Wind (1939)
Raiting: 
8,2 /10
Genre: History
Director: Victor Fleming
Stars: Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh and Olivia de Havilland
Country: United States
Release date: 15 December 1939
Length: 238 minutes
"Gone with the Wind", directed by Victor Fleming, is an epic historical romance set against the backdrop of the American Civil War and the Reconstruction era. Based on the novel by Margaret Mitchell, the film follows the life of the fiery Southern belle Scarlett O'Hara, her romantic pursuits, and her determination to survive through tumultuous times. Released in 1939, the film is renowned for its grandeur, sweeping narrative, and complex portrayal of the Old South.
The story begins at the opulent Tara plantation in Georgia, where Scarlett (played by Vivien Leigh) pines for the affections of Ashley Wilkes, despite his engagement to his cousin, Melanie Hamilton. During a barbecue at the nearby Twelve Oaks plantation, Scarlett meets the charming but roguish Rhett Butler (Clark Gable), who is immediately intrigued by her spirited demeanor. The outbreak of the Civil War brings dramatic changes to their lives, as the men go off to fight and the women are left to fend for themselves.
As the war progresses, Scarlett's life is turned upside down. She faces hardship and loss, including the fall of Atlanta and the death of her mother. Scarlett's resilience is put to the test as she vows to do whatever necessary to ensure the survival of herself, her family, and Tara. Her complex relationship with Rhett Butler evolves through a series of encounters and separations, marked by passion, conflict, and a tumultuous marriage.
Scarlett's journey is one of personal growth, as she transitions from a carefree, spoiled girl to a strong, independent woman. Despite her many flaws, Scarlett's tenacity and resourcefulness endear her to audiences. The film's portrayal of the antebellum South, the war's impact, and the subsequent Reconstruction period provides a dramatic historical context for Scarlett's story, though it has been criticized for romanticizing aspects of slavery and the Confederacy.
The film reaches its climax with Scarlett's realization of her true feelings for Rhett, but her epiphany comes too late, leading to one of the most famous lines in cinema history: "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn." Scarlett is left alone, yet her indomitable spirit persists as she resolves to return to Tara and rebuild her life, ending the film on a note of hope and determination.
"Gone with the Wind" remains a cinematic landmark, known for its epic scale, memorable performances, and its status as one of the highest-grossing films of all time when adjusted for inflation. Its legacy is complex, as it continues to be both celebrated for its achievements in filmmaking and critiqued for its controversial depiction of race and history.
Top cast - Gone with the Wind (1939)
Trailer - Gone with the Wind (1939)
"Gone with the Wind", directed by Victor Fleming and adapted from Margaret Mitchell's novel, stands as one of the most iconic films in the history of American cinema. Released in 1939, the film is a sweeping epic that captures the grandeur and tragedy of the Old South before, during, and after the Civil War. It tells the story of Scarlett O'Hara, portrayed by Vivien Leigh, a headstrong Southern belle whose life is marked by love, loss, and an unyielding will to survive.
The film is a technical and narrative marvel for its time. Its use of Technicolor, meticulous set design, and grandiose score contribute to an immersive viewing experience. Vivien Leigh delivers an unforgettable performance as Scarlett, bringing to life the character's complexity, from her manipulative charms to her fierce determination. Clark Gable's portrayal of Rhett Butler is equally compelling, with his roguish charisma and chemistry with Leigh providing some of the film's most memorable moments.
One of the film's greatest achievements is its storytelling scope. The four-hour saga allows for a deep exploration of its characters' journeys, particularly Scarlett's transformation from a spoiled plantation daughter to a hardened survivor. The supporting cast, including Olivia de Havilland as the kind-hearted Melanie Hamilton and Hattie McDaniel, who won an Academy Award for her role as Mammy, contribute richly to the film's emotional depth.
However, "Gone with the Wind" is not without its controversies. The film has been widely criticized for its romanticized portrayal of the Confederacy and its problematic depiction of slavery and race relations. While it reflects the attitudes of its time, modern audiences may find these aspects jarring and at odds with contemporary values. The film's portrayal of African American characters is particularly contentious, with stereotypical depictions that perpetuate racial myths of the era.
Despite these criticisms, "Gone with the Wind" remains a cultural touchstone, a film that both reflects and informs American attitudes about the South and its history. It is a testament to the power of cinema to capture the imagination, evoke emotion, and provoke discussion. The film's enduring popularity is a reminder of its storytelling prowess and the lasting impact of its characters, particularly Scarlett's final, defiant promise to never give up, which continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
In conclusion, "Gone with the Wind" is a film of contradictions—both a remarkable achievement in filmmaking and a contentious artifact of American cultural history. Its legacy is one that invites admiration and critique, and it will likely continue to be discussed and debated for generations to come.