This third film version of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic 1925 novel was one of the most hyped movies of the summer of 1974. Robert Redford stars as self-made millionaire Jay Gatsby, who uses his vast (and implicitly ill-gotten) fortune to buy his way into Long Island society. Most of all, Gatsby wants to win back the love of socialite Daisy Buchanan (Mia Farrow), now married to "old money" Tom Buchanan (Bruce Dern). Calmly observing the passing parade is Nick Carraway (Sam Waterston), Gatsby's best friend, who narrates the film. Francis Ford Coppola's screenplay is meticulously faithful to the original novel, but Theoni V. Aldredge's costume design and Nelson Riddle's nostalgic musical score won the film its only Oscars. The huge supporting cast includes Howard Da Silva, who played Wilson in the 1949 Great Gatsby, and a very young Patsy Kensit as Daisy's daughter. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi
An unforgettable period piece, well written, beautifully filmed, with sharp characters stylishly performed by terrific actors. Waterson, Redford, Wilson, Chiles and Herrmann are perfectly cast. I wouldn't have put Farrow, Dern, or Black in their roles, but now I can't picture anyone else doing them as well. Riddle's musical score is perfect icing on a deliciously vivid movie cake.
Read F Scott to find the real message and memorize the last page to know what the era was about - what does money buy? - good movie commentary - Mia is very interesting and Redford perfect for the role - sad characters - I liked it - I invite viewers to find the good in it - it's there