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Reviews
Elizabeth (1998)
Gorgeous, film, fabulous acting
Cate Blanchett is stunning in this film about the early years of the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. She truly becomes the Virgin Queen, and carries the viewer along as she faces the difficulties of ruling, the heart-breaking decisions she must make, and as she becomes a truly regal woman, every inch a Queen. Cate was, in my opinion, truly the more deserving candidate for the Best Actress Oscar.
All of the cast of this film make it a sweeping, engrossing tale, the cinematography and costumes are beautiful. Anyone with an interest in this time period will love this film, and even those who have never been much interested in historical films will be drawn in by Cate's flawless performance.
Ladies of the Chorus (1948)
Cute film showcases young Monroe's voice, stunning beauty
A very young Marilyn Monroe in her first lead role made an impression on critics with her performance in this light film about a young burlesque queen whose mother disapproves of her engagement to a wealthy man.
Monroe's sweet singing voice is showcased for the first time in this film, and it is a real treat. She had not yet adopted the "Marilyn Monroe" persona, but even without the breathy baby-doll voice she is the image of innocent seduction.
Although the plot is rather formulaic and simplistic, this film does offer something of a twist at the end. All in all a cute film and opportunity to see Monroe as a young fresh-faced beauty who, as always, lights up the screen.
Gone with the Wind (1939)
Epic tale of love set during the Civil War
This Classic film tells the tale of the life and loves of Scarlett O'Hara (played to perfection by Vivien Leigh), a tough Southern Belle who survives the Civil War, shocks Southern society, and spends years chasing a love of which she can't let go while ignoring the one that is right before her eyes.
Based on Margaret Mitchell's best-selling novel, Gone With the Wind has become one of the most beloved films of all time, the love triangle between Scarlett, Rhett (Clark Gable), and Ashley (Leslie Howard) among the most famed.
Scarlett is a character that has captured public imagination; she is the girl we love to hate. She is selfish, calculating, and shrewd, she is impulsive, passionate, and single-minded in her pursuit of Ashley Wilkes. Despite her so obvious character flaws, the viewer can't help but fall in love with her, just as the men around her do, can't help but cheer her triumphs and empathize with her heartbreaks.
All of the characters in this film come alive to the viewer; the kind, sweet Melly who can never find fault with Scarlett; the confused Ashley Wilkes, who loves his wife but can't seem to make it clear to Scarlett; the tough "scoundrel" with a heart of gold, Rhett Butler; Mammy who loves her Scarlett while utterly disapproving of her; all of the Southern ladies and gentlemen who bravely face the destruction of their world and try valiently to adjust to the new one.
Gone With the Wind is not only the tale of a woman, but the tale of a civilization now gone. It is a tale of survival, of love and loss. Beautifully filmed, wonderfully acted, with stunning costumes and scenery, Gone With the Wind has delighted audiences for over 60 years, and will continue to do so for many to come.