I'm a bit of a classic movie junkie and was dying to see this movie for an extremely long time. Despite its 3 1/2 hour (almost 4 hour) run time, I absolutely enjoyed every minute of Gone With The Wind. Without giving too much away, the movie is basically about a rich Southern Belle who chases after a man who isn't in love with her and is marrying another woman. And, by the way, it takes place during the Civil War. Before Titanic swept us off our feet, Gone With The Wind was the ultimate historical drama with a love story.
But, aside from the movie's melodramatic romantic story and Civil War backdrop, "Gone With The Wind" also has its lessons about love and life. Don't underestimate old movies from the 30's and 40's. They come with their fair share of lessons just as much as today's movies. These are just a few of them.
1. Do not get hung up over one person.
If he doesn't have the same feelings for you that you have him for him, it's time to move on. Let go of that Ashley Wilkes in your life ASAP, Scarlett O'Hara!
2. Once he's taken...he's taken.
Don't play dirty and steal your dream man from another woman. You don't want another woman taking your man, do you?
3. What's in the past is in the past. Don't try to relive it.
You can't rebuild an entire plantation from scratch after it's destroyed. There comes a time when you're going to have to leave the past behind and live in the present.
4. Don't let any opportunity pass you by.
There's a Rhett Butler out there for you somewhere. You just haven't found him yet. Be patient.
5. This movie is NOT an accurate interpretation of slavery during the Antebellum period at all.
Watch this movie and then watch 12 Years A Slave. Then, pick which one looks more like slavery during the Civil War period you've learned about in American history classes. Despite the fact Hattie McDaniel, the actress who played Mammy in GWTW, won an Oscar for her role and became the first African American to win an Oscar, the portrayal of slavery in film is just way too glorified.
6. Haters are going to hate.
Who cares what other people think of you? Be who you are and don't let anyone change your ways, whether you're a rebel or a goody-goody.
7. Be fabulous!
In every situation Scarlett had to go through, she still managed to keep herself fabulous, even if it meant having Mammy make a dress for her out of curtains. Make every outfit for any occasion, from a simple walk to campus or drive to Walmart, as beautiful and as fabulous as you are.
8. Don't get too spoiled.
Rhett absolutely spoiled Scarlett after she agreed to marry him, from fancy honeymoons to the finest fashion of the time. It's nice for a guy to treat you to dinner or to a new dress once in a while, but don't take advantage of his offerings all the time. You should like him for his personality, not his money.
9. If you're passionate about someone or something, don't be afraid to express it.
Rhett wasn't afraid to express his feelings for Scarlett, even if she was still madly in love with Ashley. If you have to say something, say it. Don't fear rejection. The worst someone can say is "No" or "I'm not interested." If that happens, move on to someone who's actually worth your time.
10. Stay strong. Everything will get better in the end.
