Out of Africa (1985)

Synopsis of Out of Africa

Out of Africa is drawn from the life and writings of Danish author Isak Dinesen, who during the time that the film's events occured was known by her married name, Karen Blixen-Flecke. For convenience's sake, Karen (Meryl Streep) has married Baron Bor Blixen-Flecke (Klaus Maria Brandauer). In 1914, the Baron moves himself and his wife to a plantation in Nairobi, then leaves Karen to her own devices as he returns to his womanizing and drinking. Soon, Karen has fallen in love with charming white hunter Denys Finch Hatton (Robert Redford), who prefers a no-strings relationship. A woman who prides herself on her independence, Blixen finds herself unhappily in thrall to a aloof man -- and doubly unhappy for living out such a cliché situation. Although Redford received a lion's share of criticism for his too-American performance, Streep has rarely been better, and the film's perfectly measured pace is offset by David Watkin's stunning location photography. The movie was nominated for 11 Academy Awards and won 7, including Best Picture, Best Director for Sydney Pollack, Best Adapted Screenplay for Kurt Luedtke, and Best Cinematography for Watkin. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi

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Theatrical Feature Running Time:

161 mins

Director(s):

Sydney Pollack

Writer(s):

Kurt Luedtke, Judith Rascoe

Producer(s):

Sydney Pollack

Theatrical MPAA Rating:

PG(Questionable for Children, Adult Situations, Mild Violence)

• 1986 - British Academy of Film and Television Arts - Best Adaptation
• 1985 - Golden Globe - Best Picture - Drama
• 1985 - Hollywood Foreign Press Association - Best Original Score
• 1985 - Hollywood Foreign Press Association - Best Picture - Drama
• 1985 - Hollywood Foreign Press Association - Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture
• 1985 - Los Angeles Film Critics Association - Best Cinematography
• 1985 - Los Angeles Film Critics Association - Best Actress
• 1985 - National Board of Review - Best Supporting Actor
• 1985 - New York Film Critics Circle - Best Supporting Actor
• 1985 - New York Film Critics Circle - Best Cinematography

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