Saturday on DVD: Out of Africa

Out of Africa with Meryl Streep and Robert Redford is another of my favorite movies. I saw it in the theater as a teenager and I think it filled me with extra angst for a few weeks. For sure, I learned by heart the poem by A. E. Houseman, To an Athlete Dying Young, that Karen (played by Streep) recites at the end. I also coveted the beautiful period clothes worn by the heroine.

It is such an epic and beautiful film in it's cinematography. And the story is enchanting because it is based on the true life experience of Karen Blixen, who wrote the novel of the same title under the pseudonym Isak Dinesen. I have, on my long list of things I'd like to do this year, to get farther than a few pages into both the novel and a biography of Blixen.

Out of Africa introduced me to Meryl Streep. She is an utterly amazing actor, no? And it was my first experience seeing Robert Redford's acting as well, the rugged icon that he is. I saw him at a restaurant once--he is ruggedly handsome in person, too.

I would say that even though it has been over two decades since this film came out, it is still stunning and wonderful to watch. Tinged with sadness, yes, but also the inspiring tale of a strong and adventurous woman. Oh, and there is a lovely New Year's Eve scene, so this is perfect timing if you need something good to watch tonight.

Let me know how you like it.

P.S. Yes, more Clip Art.