Out of Africa is a 1985 American epic romantic drama film directed and produced by Sydney Pollack.
It stars Meryl Streep and Robert Redford and is based loosely on the 1937 autobiographical book Out of Africa written by Isak Dinesen, the pseudonym of Danish author Karen Blixen, with additional material from Dinesen's 1960 book "Shadows on the Grass" and other sources. The film tells the true life story of Karen Blixen, a woman trapped in a loveless marriage, who finds happiness with an adventurer.
Plot
Out of Africa is a 1985 epic romantic drama film directed and produced by Sydney Pollack, starring Meryl Streep and Robert Redford. The plot of the movie is based on the life of Danish author Karen Blixen, who moved to Africa at the beginning of the 20th century to build a new life for herself. The film is loosely based on Blixen's 1937 autobiographical Out of Africa and additional material from her 1960 book "Shadows on the Grass".
film is set in the East African colonies of Kenya, Uganda, and the Rhodesias, which were attracting waves of European settlers discontented with life at home in the years around World War I.
The plot highlights Karen's experiences on her farm in Africa, where she lives in unity with the natives and even some of the animals. The film also touches on the tragic death of Denys Finch-Hatton, who is killed when his airplane crashes south of Nairobi. The movie ends with Karen's departure from Africa and her efforts to relocate the natives who live on her farm.
Director: Sydney Pollack
Writer: Kurt Luedtke
Box Office (Gross USA): $227,514,205
Distributor: MCA/Universal Pictures [us], Universal Pictures
Genre: Romance, Biography, Drama
Release Date (Theaters): Dec 18, 1985
Release Date (Streaming): Apr 19, 2016
Themes & Reception
Out of Africa received critical acclaim and won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Cinematography. It is praised for its captivating story, stunning cinematography, and exceptional performances, making it a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Challenges Faced During Production
The movie was shot using 35mm film, adding to the timeless and nostalgic quality of the visuals. The production also illustrated the contrasts between African and European lifestyles, depicting the clash between the simplicity and closeness to nature in Africa and the formality of European life.
Settings, Visual Styles & Techniques
The film is set in the East African colonies of Kenya, Uganda, and the Rhodesias, showcasing the vast African landscapes and immersing the viewers in the complexities of the region. It features breathtaking cinematography and an enchanting musical score, combining traditional film techniques with compelling performances to weave a tale of love, adventure, and self-discovery.