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Out of Africa (1985) Reviews

Out of Africa (1985)
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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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Starring:
Meryl StreepRobert Redford, (more)
Director(s):
Sydney Pollack
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
PG
Format(s):
DVD  |  Blu-ray  | Digital SD
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Average Ratings

(32 member reviews)  


Member Reviews


Rich B.

I have been lucky enought to go to eastern Africa many times, and this wonderful movie truly captures the spirit of the country, its people and its animals. This is also a very sad story, so be prepared for that as well.

Yes   |   No


Vivian T.

It takes the movie a little while to get going, but once it does, the movie is incredible. The movie takes you through all sorts of emotions, it's truly a classic.

Yes   |   No


Jane F.

Well worth your time. A beautiful movie.

Yes   |   No


Lana D.

Most excellant movie ever. 5stars

Yes   |   No


James W.

Lots of beautiful old cars and trains are in the various scenes, and the actual filming locations in a comfortable Kenya are fun to see: an agricultural alternative to the "sweltering Wild Jungles Africa" of Tarzan. Most of the actors are unknown to the American audience, but are superb in their roles. I liked the bar scene in the Men's Club where the man asks Karen Blixen "Can I stand you a drink"--it seems a more polite overture than the usual "can I buy you a drink" saying.

Yes   |   No


Giovonnae A.

Good story.. Took forever for it to get going and even then it was slow. Robert and Meryl were great!

Yes   |   No


Linda G.

This film deserves a place in your library. On my top ten list of all time. Excellent adaptation. Great direction, as expected from Sidney Pollack. The cinematography is spectacular. This is a love story set in a time of changing roles and cultural upheaval. Not only for the principal characters but the indigenous peoples as well .The score perfectly sets the tone. The acting is top-notch. Brilliantly paints how people are swept away in the tide of history. The only solid thing is the land beneath them. But it is never theirs to keep. It is only borrowed.

Yes   |   No


Glenda B.

Captures the essence of a bygone era. Unfolds the story of a woman who never really felt like she belonged, but yearned to belong and to be cherished. A quiet movie for those with time to think. Leaves your heart aching and asking....

Yes   |   No


Rebecca L.

This movie is a perfect story of one woman's journey, not just in distance but in understanding. Beautiful photography, beautiful background music, Meryl Streep and Robert Redford - what more could you ask for? The movie is long, but perfect for a time when you are alone and can spend three hours with your emotions.

Yes   |   No


Katherine L.

I had all but forgotten about this movie until my sister mentioned she had seen it again. Yes, I saw it in theaters when first released, but apparently time softened the impact because when I watched it again, well, how could I have forgotten? Amazing cinematography, music, story - now on my 'favorite movies ever' list along with Rear Window and Gosford Park.

Yes   |   No


 
 
 

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Member Reviews
 
Rich B.

I have been lucky enought to go to eastern Africa many times, and this wonderful movie truly captures the spirit of the country, its people and its animals. This is also a very sad story, so be prepared for that as well.

Yes   |   No

 
Vivian T.

It takes the movie a little while to get going, but once it does, the movie is incredible. The movie takes you through all sorts of emotions, it's truly a classic.

Yes   |   No

 
Jane F.

Well worth your time. A beautiful movie.

Yes   |   No

 
Read All 32 Reviews