Gone with the Wind (1939) - Critical Reviews

Synopsis

Scarlett is a woman who can deal with a nation at war, Atlanta burning, the Union Army carrying off everything from her beloved Tara, the carpetbaggers who arrive after the war. Scarlett is beautiful. She has vitality. But Ashley, the man she has wanted for so long, is going to marry his placid cousin, Melanie. Mammy warns Scarlett to behave herself at the party at Twelve Oaks. There is a new man there that day, the day the Civil War begins. Rhett Butler. Scarlett does not know he is in the room when she pleads with Ashley to choose her instead of Melanie.

Critical Acclaim

Upon its release in 1939, Gone with the Wind was met with overwhelming praise from critics and audiences alike, quickly becoming a cultural phenomenon. The film's epic scale, lavish production values, and innovative use of Technicolor were celebrated as groundbreaking achievements in cinema. Critics lauded Victor Fleming's direction and the film's faithful adaptation of Margaret Mitchell's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. The performances of Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable were particularly highlighted, with Leigh's portrayal of Scarlett O'Hara earning her widespread acclaim for capturing the character's complex mix of determination and vulnerability.

Frank S. Nugent of The New York Times described it as "a towering landmark" in Hollywood's history, praising its visual splendor and emotional depth. Decades later, the film holds an 89% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting its enduring appeal. Modern critics acknowledge the film's problematic racial depictions but continue to commend its technical achievements and compelling narrative. Roger Ebert, in a retrospective review, noted the film's "sweeping grandeur" and "unforgettable characters," affirming its place in American cinematic history.

Gone with the Wind secured its legacy as a monumental achievement, both artistically and commercially. It won 10 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and became the highest-grossing film of its time, a record it held for decades when adjusted for inflation. The film's influence is evident in its continued presence in discussions about classic Hollywood cinema and its frequent inclusion on lists of the greatest films ever made, such as those by the American Film Institute. Its enduring legacy is a testament to its impact on both the art of filmmaking and its reflection of American culture.