GONE WITH THE WIND (1939)

Film of the Day #146

GONE WITH THE WIND
1939 • Victor Fleming

Screenplay: Sidney Howard; Based on Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
Producer: David O. Selznick
Cast: Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Leslie Howard, Olivia de Havilland, Thomas Mitchell, Evelyn Keyes, Ann Rutherford, Hattie McDaniel, Butterfly McQueen, Alicia Rhett, Jane Darwell
Cinematography: Ernest Haller
Music: Max Steiner

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

No, I don't think I will kiss you, although you need kissing, badly. That's what's wrong with you. You should be kissed and often, and by someone who knows how.

All right, let’s get it out of the way. It's impossible to discuss Gone with the Wind without acknowledging its deeply rooted and outdated romanticization of the Antebellum South. The film, adapted from Margaret Mitchell's novel, presents a vision of the pre-Civil War American South that is steeped in nostalgia, glamour, and opulence. While it’s undoubtedly a brilliant epic of its time, it also sanitized the brutality of slavery. Gone with the Wind presents a version of the South where plantation life is portrayed as idyllic, and its characters are ignorant of the horrors of the institution upon which their wealth and privilege were built.

It is entirely possible to acknowledge and discuss the problematic aspects of Gone with the Wind while still appreciating its filmmaking spectacle. This iconic movie boasts breathtaking cinematography, unforgettable performances, and a sweeping narrative that has captivated audiences for generations. By recognizing its shortcomings in terms of historical accuracy and its romanticized portrayal of the Antebellum South, viewers can engage in meaningful discussions about the evolution of cinema, societal perspectives, and the responsibility of filmmakers to present a more nuanced and truthful depiction of the past. Ultimately, appreciating Gone with the Wind today means embracing its cinematic achievements while also engaging in a critical dialogue that highlights the need for more accurate and inclusive storytelling in the film industry.

Born into wealth on a Georgia plantation, Scarlett O’Hara is a headstrong Southern belle who harbors an unrequited love for Ashley Wilkes (Leslie Howard), who is set to marry his cousin Melanie Hamilton (Olivia de Havilland). As the Civil War unfolds, Scarlett's world crumbles, and she faces a series of personal and societal challenges. She uses her wiles to marry different suitors in attempts to make Ashley jealous, but also enabling her, her family, and her way of life, to survive. She ultimately marries the enigmatic Rhett Butler (Clark Gable), a charming rogue with whom she has a contemptuous relationship. The film navigates Scarlett's journey from a self-centered and pampered young woman to a determined survivor in the midst of war and societal upheaval. The film's sprawling narrative encompasses not only Scarlett's personal trials but also the broader canvas of the Civil War and Reconstruction era. As the war ravages the South, the characters are confronted with the harsh realities of life during and after the conflict.

When it comes to iconic Hollywood classics, few films can rival the enduring allure and historical significance of Gone with the Wind. Released in 1939, this epic Civil War drama directed by Victor Fleming remains a cinematic masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the world of filmmaking. From its iconic characters to its record-smashing box office success and unprecedented Academy Award wins, Gone with the Wind has cemented its claim as a pop culture juggernaut.

The size and scale of Gone with the Wind made it an unprecedented undertaking. "Selznick's Folly," as it was dubbed by Hollywood insiders during its production, stands as a testament to the ambition and determination of producer David O. Selznick. The film was considered a massive gamble due to its unprecedented budget, casting challenges, and the sheer logistical complexity of adapting Margaret Mitchell's epic novel for the screen. Selznick's relentless pursuit of perfection led to numerous script rewrites, a revolving door of directors, and the commitment of vast resources. Despite all the obstacles, his unwavering belief in the project paid off, resulting in one of the most enduring cinematic achievements in history. "Selznick's Folly" ultimately became a triumph of Hollywood's Golden Age, an emblematic example of the classic Hollywood studio system.

Scarlett O'Hara is often considered one of the most unlikeable protagonists in cinematic history. She’s also one of the most complex and iconic. Her journey from selfishness to maturity is a central theme, and her journey has fascinated audiences for generations. The casting process for the role of Scarlett in Gone with the Wind was nothing short of an epic saga in its own right. The search for the perfect actress to portray the iconic Southern Belle was exhaustive, and it involved multiple screen tests, auditions, and the consideration of numerous Hollywood starlets.

The quest to cast Scarlett began even before the film's production formally started. Initially, Selznick had considered top-tier actresses of the time, including Bette Davis, Katharine Hepburn, and Joan Crawford, but none seemed to fit the role perfectly. He then embarked on a nationwide search, inviting unknown actresses to audition for the part. This casting call became a sensation, drawing thousands of hopefuls from all corners of the United States.

Ultimately, it was Vivien Leigh, a British actress known for her stage work, who caught Selznick's attention. However, Leigh's casting wasn't without its complications, as she was relatively unknown to American audiences and faced skepticism from some quarters. Despite the challenges and the lengthy casting process, Vivien Leigh's portrayal of Scarlett O'Hara would go on to become one of the most iconic performances in cinematic history. Her dedication to the role and her ability to capture the character's flaws proved that the exhaustive search for the perfect Scarlett was well worth it.

Clark Gable was already a Hollywood superstar known for his charismatic on-screen presence and rugged charm, and his casting added immense star power to the project. Rhett Butler is a character with shades of anti-heroism and moral ambiguity. Throughout the film, he acts like a rogue, a scoundrel, but he ultimately does the “right” thing… even if it’s for his own benefit. Gable’s portrayal of Rhett Butler would ultimately become one of the defining performances of his career, elevating the character to legendary status and contributing significantly to the film's cultural impact. Gable's charismatic and roguish Rhett perfectly complemented Vivien Leigh's Scarlett O'Hara, creating a love/hate chemistry that ignites the screen.

Leslie Howard and Olivia de Havilland deliver compelling and memorable performances as Ashley Wilkes and Melanie Hamilton, respectively. Leslie Howard's portrayal of Ashley is marked by a sense of gentility and inner conflict, capturing the essence of a man torn between his societal obligations and his unspoken affection for Scarlett. On the other hand, Olivia de Havilland's portrayal of Melanie shines with grace, kindness, and unwavering moral strength. Her performance adds a sense of purity and empathy to the narrative, serving as a stark contrast to Scarlett's tumultuous personality and selfishness. De Havilland's depiction of Melanie's enduring love for her husband, Ashley, and her friendship with Scarlett makes her character a vital and beloved part of the story.

Hattie McDaniel's performance as Mammy is historic. Her portrayal of the headstrong, wise, and fiercely loyal house servant is a standout in the film. Despite the limited and often stereotypical roles available to Black actors in Hollywood at the time, McDaniel brought depth and authenticity to the character of Mammy. Her performance not only earned her critical acclaim but also made her the first African American to win an Academy Award, a groundbreaking achievement in the history of cinema.

Hattie McDaniel was not allowed to attend the Atlanta premiere of Gone with the Wind due to Jim Crow segregation policies of the time. Clark Gable threatened to boycott the film's Atlanta premiere due to racial segregation in the Jim Crow South. He was vocal about his disapproval of the situation and made it clear that he would not attend the premiere unless McDaniel was welcomed. Ultimately, McDaniel herself convinced Gable to go.

The scene depicting the burning of Atlanta is undeniably a masterpiece of epic filmmaking. This memorable sequence is a breathtaking blend of visual effects, practical effects, and sheer scale. As the city of Atlanta is engulfed in flames, the screen is filled with the chaotic spectacle of destruction and despair. The use of practical effects, including massive sets, controlled fires, and hundreds of extras, creates a visceral and unforgettable cinematic experience. The scene's impact is further heightened by the film's score, which swells with emotion and intensity. It's a testament to the filmmaking prowess of its time, showcasing the ability of filmmakers to create awe-inspiring spectacles long before the era of CGI. The burning of Atlanta is an awesome spectacle befitting the epic tale.

Gone with the Wind was a monumental success. It is one of the earliest films to sweep the Oscars, winning eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Adjusted for inflation, it remains one of the highest-grossing films of all time. It is filled with iconic moments and memorable lines, including the famous, “Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn." It is a cinematic tapestry of love and loss, ambition and destruction, and ultimately, the indomitable spirit of its complex heroine as she strives to rebuild her life and her family's fortune in a world forever altered by the ravages of war.

- Rhett, Rhett... Rhett, if you go, where shall I go? What shall I do?
- Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn.

Notable Accomplishments

• 10 Academy Award wins including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Actress (Leigh), and Best Supporting Actress (McDaniel)

• Highest grossing film of all time, adjusted for inflation

• "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn” ranked #1 in American Film Institute’s 100 Years… 100 Movie Quotes

Streaming: MAX
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Physical Media: Available on DVD and Blu-Ray