Melanie Remembers: Reflections by Olivia de Havilland (2004) Online

OLIVIA de HAVILLAND is obviously pleased and proud of her participation in what has proved to be one of the most beloved films of the 20th Century. The silver-haired actress speaks directly to the camera to tell how her casting as Melanie came about. But it is not a full account of the struggles involved in making the film.

Speaking almost too slowly at times, caressing even simple articles of speech in an actressy manner (and a bit melodramatic to boot), she nevertheless communicates easily with anyone interested in hearing a behind the scenes account of making the legendary film.

The only drawback, for me at least, is that I've heard all of these stories before either from de Havilland herself (in interviews) or read about them in any one of the various books on the subject. She fails to come up with anything vitally new and significant--except for an amusing tale about the ruffles on Melanie's dress and Selznick's own quest for perfectionism. Other than that, I've heard all of the tales before from either her viewpoint or others who spoke about the film, so it was a bit of a letdown in not learning anything new.

But fans hearing this material fresh for the first time will no doubt find it fascinating. Maybe she's saving the best stuff for her autobiography, whenever that comes out. Olivia still has that radiant,classic loveliness and no doubt fans of the actress will appreciate her participation on this segment of the beautifully restored DVD.

Missing on the DVD is a rundown on Olivia's long career. All of the other players are given brief bios, but not Olivia. I guess they decided that this interview would make up for the missing bio.

As is indicated in the IMDb trivia, this was on disc 4 from the "Gone With the Wind" DVD set. It consists of an amazingly youthful Olivia de Havilland talking about the film and her role as Melanie. Considering what an amazing lady she it and how seldom she's been seen in recent years, it's a treat to see this.

A few interesting tidbits in this sweet short include: how Olivia got the role--and it included doing something a bit dishonest (her description of the incident), the costuming and makeup, fun on the set, her reaction to the film's change in director, her recollections about her co-stars and the film's premier.

All in all, a gentle little film--filled with nice tidbits. And, if you are a fan of Miss de Havilland, it's a delight.

This special was like listening to your grandmother spill her guys out about days gone by! Olivia de Havilland and "Gone with the Wind" are national treasures and this interview is interesting however it takes her forever to finish a sentence!

This special was made for the 65th Anniversary of "Gone With The Wind". It is very interesting to watch but trust me if feel like its another 65 years before Olvia finishes the simplest of stories.

I was glad to watch this interview however when they include this on future home video releases I hope they cut it down. She is a huge bore to listen to!

I think with voice over questions and editing this could become more entertaining!