Out of Africa
dir. Sydney Pollack · 1985
Feature
Cultural Dislocation
Mood
Romantic / Melancholic
Look
lush cinematography capturing the African savannah, with sweeping landscapes and intimate close-ups
Structure
nonlinear, interweaving personal and historical events
Plot
Follows the life of Karen Blixen, who establishes a plantation in Africa. Her life is complicated by a husband of convenience (Bror Blixen), a true love (Denys), troubles on the plantation, schooling of the natives, war, and catching VD from her husband.
Why watch
"Out of Africa" is a sweeping romantic epic that intertwines love and loss against the backdrop of colonial Africa, inviting viewers to reflect on the complexities of cultural dislocation and the bittersweet nature of unfulfilled dreams.
Talking points
- the ethics of colonialism
- the nature of love across cultural divides
- the role of women in historical narratives
- the impact of personal choices on broader societal issues
Cultural context
post-colonial discoursegender roles in early 20th centurythe impact of European imperialismthe romanticization of Africa in Western literature