Review of Out of Africa (1985) by Richard D — 31 Jan 2011
I'm normally a sucker for a sweeping, epic romance but Pollack's adaptation of Karen Blixen's Africa novels fails to convince despite its lush panoramas, emotive John Barry score and a clutch of Oscars.
The lack of chemistry between its stars is the problem here, mostly because Redford's character is barely sketched in leaving him little to do except periodically drop in like some rented himbo. Much of the film is gratifyingly spent on location but epic vistas barely compensate for the hours expended rummaging around the plantation, mooning after bi-planes and staring romantically over the balconey.
Without the aforementioned score, OoA would be a very tepid and bloodless affair indeed. Extra star for the rugged but gorgeous costumes.
This review of Out of Africa (1985) was written by Richard D on 31 Jan 2011.
Out of Africa has generally received positive reviews.
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