CeremonialSupplies.com is committed to excellence in ceremonial events, and we are delighted to delve today into one of the grandest, grand opening ceremony film premieres ever witnessed; the grand opening premiere of “Gone with the Wind,” in Atlanta, GA. “Gone with the Wind," is a cinematic masterpiece that captivated audiences from its first showing, and left an indelible mark on film history, relevant and thought-provoking. The grand opening of "Gone with the Wind" took place on December 15, 1939, when 2,300 people inside the Loew's Grand Theatre, and an estimated 300,000 crowded outside surrounding the theater, to which 400 national guardsmen were deployed to maintain control at 47 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, Georgia were the film was shown after three-days of commemorative activities. The legendary film represented a monumental moment for profit-minded Hollywood, as the film became the highest grossing film of all times, while exploring deep perspectives of American culture.
The premiere was an extravagant, star-studded affair, with elaborate props and promotions that added to the excitement and allure. Headlines in newspapers and magazines touted the film's groundbreaking achievements and star-studded cast, drawing attention and generating buzz among moviegoers. Prior to the premiere, a parade attended by an estimated 300,000 people, welcomed the stars of the movie into Atlanta, chosen as the venue for the grand opening premiere because it was Margaret Mitchell’s home town, and where she wrote “Gone with the Wind.” Other special promotions included a lavish costumed ball recreating the antebellum period; the display of the film’s costumes throughout Atlanta’s store-front windows; Clyorama, a gigantic 10,000 lbs. painting of The Battle of Atlanta (a revised version of this 150-year old painting is now in the Atlanta History Center) was brought to Atlanta for the premiere of the film, and many more related events were featured as part of the program. The evening of December 15, five giant Spotlights were brought in by the army, to illuminate the night sky, signaling the arrival of esteemed guests, celebrities, actors, dignitaries, and luminaries in attendance. Among the notable guests were the film's stars, including Vivien Leigh, who played “Scarlett,” attended with her husband, Lawrence Olivier; Clark Gable, “Rhett Butler” in the film, and Mrs. Gable, Carole Lombard; Olivia de Havilland, who portrayed “Melanie Hamilton”, and her husband Marcus Goodrich; Ona Munson, “Belle Watling” in the film; Directors Victor Fleming and George Cukor also graced the event with their presence, along with producer David O. Selznick, whose vision and determination brought the classic novel "Gone with the Wind" to life.
One of the most important people associated with "Gone With the Wind" who attended its Atlanta premiere was Margaret Mitchell, the author of the novel on which the film was based. Margaret Mitchell attended the Atlanta premiere, accompanied by her husband, John Marsh. Her presence added a significant layer of authenticity and reverence to the event. Mitchell encapsulated in her fast-paced, adventurous, and culturally filled-life, everything represented by each of the characters of the classic novel. Her creative force was poured into a story worthy of the recognition of the Pulitzer Prize, which it received in 1936. Special honored guests of this historical grand opening premiere included the last surviving veterans of the Civil War; Walter D. Kennedy, and Joseph B. Ivey, both in their late 90s. They were honored at the grand opening event for their service, representing a connection to the historical period depicted in the film.
The program for the grand opening was meticulously planned to showcase the film's grandeur and significance. It began with the arrival of the film's stars, directors, and David O. Selznick, who were all greeted with applause and fanfare as they arrived by plane, and walked a red carpet, laid out to receive them; with all events radiating glamour and excitement. It was to be a memorable experience for all attendees. As guests arrived, they were greeted by ushers. The red carpet was adorned with floral arrangements and decorative elements, creating a glamorous pathway for celebrities and VIPs, and above them, printed on a giant ribbon banner were the words “Gone With the Wind, Never in a Lifetime Have Eyes Beheld Its Equal.” This phrase set the tone for the evening, highlighting the anticipation and acclaim surrounding “Gone With the Wind,” the movie sometimes called “The Greatest Motion Picture of All Time.”
Inside, the guests settled into their seats in the majestic Loew's Grand Theatre, and the program continued with a series of speeches and acknowledgments honoring the cast, crew, and contributors who brought "Gone with the Wind" to fruition. David O. Selznick delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing his gratitude to everyone involved in the production and emphasizing the film's importance in cinematic history. Following the speeches, at exactly 8:15 pm, the lights dimmed, and the audience was treated to a screening of "Gone with the Wind" on the silver screen for the first time. The epic tale unfolded, captivating viewers with its sweeping cinematography, compelling storytelling, and unforgettable performances, transporting the audience to the antebellum South, swept up in the epic saga of love, war, and redemption portrayed on the silver screen.
The grand opening of "Gone with the Wind" was not just a Hollywood premiere; it was a cultural event that captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. The film's themes of love, loss, resilience, and redemption resonated deeply with viewers, making it an instant classic and a box office phenomenon. The movie was honored with 8 Academy Awards, including Best Picture; Best Actress: Vivien Leigh; Best Supporting Actress: the talented Hattie McDaniel, for her performance as “Mammy”, and Best Director: Victor Fleming among them.
The segregation policies in Atlanta and other Southern states during the grand opening premiere of "Gone With the Wind" were deeply rooted in historical events, including the aftermath of the Civil War and the Reconstruction era. The Northern carpetbagger invasion and the subsequent political and social changes in the South had a profound impact on race relations and societal norms, leading to the implementation of segregation laws and practices. This historical context sheds light on the complexities and challenges faced by individuals, including actors and artists, during that period. Missing from the greatest grand opening premiere the world had ever seen were Best Supporting Actress Award winner, Hattie McDaniels, whose heart-felt speech upon accepting her award brought everyone to their feet with an enormous standing ovation for her unforgettable performance; Butterfly McQueen, “Prissy” in the movie, and Leslie Howard, who played “Ashley Wilkes”, who had already been drafted by the British military for WWII.
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