Part of Our Ongoing Series Examining Significant Events of the Past
Image by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer – Public Domain,
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=60734871
In these more enlightened times, we have a better understanding of some of the negative cultural implications of works like “Gone With the Wind.” I’m not going to explore those questions here. That is not to downplay their grave significance, but rather to focus on a particular moment in time which occurred 84 years ago today.
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The world premiere of “Gone With the Wind” took place at the Loew’s Grand Theater in Atlanta, Georgia. This star-studded affair captivated the public with all its media focus and lavish glamor. The attendance of its well-known stars — Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable — only added to the allure.
The film itself was an ambitious project, with a lengthy production schedule and large budget. The story follows the life of the spirited Scarlett O’Hara, as she lives through the Civil War and Reconstruction in Georgia. As an adaptation of Margaret Mitchell’s 1936 bestselling novel of the same name, anticipation for its release was palpable.
The film rights had been sold to producer David O. Selznick who in turn hired director Victor Fleming to bring Mitchell’s characters to life on the screen. Selznick chose Atlanta for the premiere both to showcase the beauty and history of Georgia and to honor Mitchell who was born there. New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago also held premieres, but Atlanta was the unquestioned main event.
Acme News Photos – Public Domain,
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37861559
The grand premiere drew nearly 300,000 people to the Loew’s Grand Theater, most of whom obviously couldn’t fit inside. The event was celebrated with three days of festivities that included an extravagant costumed ball at Peachtree Plaza Hotel, a parade of film stars down Peachtree Street, and a fireworks display over downtown Atlanta. The governor of Georgia even declared December 15 a state holiday.
The debut of “Gone With the Wind” took place against the backdrop of major world events. Global war was on the horizon, and the excitement surrounding the film provided a brief respite from fears of looming conflict. It served as an escapist fantasy that transported theater-goers to a different time and place, providing a much-needed distraction from the uncertainty of the times.
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So there you have it. “Gone With the Wind” first opened 84 years ago today. The film’s impact was felt not only in the United States but around the world. It would go on to become a global sensation, captivating audiences and earning international accolades. The premiere was a celebration of art, storytelling, and the magic of the silver screen, and its significance has endured for generations.
By Steven Roberts
