2. "Frankly My Dear, I Don't Give A Damn" Gone With The Wind (1939)
In Gone With The Wind (1939), Scarlett OHara endlessly pursues the love of her life, Ashley Wilkes. Shes a clinger and a stalker, but at the end of 4 hours, she finally realizes its not going to happen. Ashley loves his wife, even after she dies, so Scarlett has to settle for her second choice, Rhett Butler. Unfortunately, as we all know, Rhett doesnt give a damn; hes finally given up on her. So the film ends with Scarlett vowing to do what shes always done shell stalk the man she loves until he finally returns the favour. But who knows how long that film would be? Scarlett is not trying to insult Rhett or mock him in any way. In fact, shes trying to confess her love to him. However, Rhetts seen how Scarlett has used many men in her past, so her affection seems to be a desperate attempt to take advantage of him. Rhetts finally given up on her, and he lets her know in the bluntest way possible. And then he just walks away into the mist, like some action hero refusing to look back at an explosion. While hes not nearly as profane as John McClane at least he has the decency to begin with my dear Rhetts comeback line sent shockwaves through its initial audience. Many profane things in the film are done in a coy manner, but this line is, well, very frank. Not only is it a slap in the face for Scarlett, but its a slap in the face for the Production Code as well.
I received my Bachelor's Degree in English Literature and Film Studies with Highest Honours at Carleton University. I've got an obsession with fiction that I'd love to share with the world; I hope you'll join me while I discuss the greatest or latest films and television shows. You can follow me on Twitter @AdaptedInAction to keep up with my articles.
