Opened: December 18, 1985

Directed by: Sydney Pollack

Starring: Robert Redford, Meryl Streep, Klaus Maria Brandauer, Michael Kitchen, Shane Rimmer, Malick Bowens, Joseph Thiaka, Stephen Kinyanjui, Michael Gouch, Suzanna Hamilton, Rachel Kempson, Graham Crowden, Benny Young & Leslie Phillips

With stunning cinematography depicting Africa in its splendor, Out of Africa is a beautiful film despite slow pacing.

Karen Dinesen (Meryl Streep) marries Baron Bror Blixen (Klaus Maria Brandauer) and starts her life as baroness by moving to Nairobi. There she meets game hunter Denys Finch Hatton (Robert Redford). The two grow into a romance that blossoms after Bror moves on.

Streep is fantastic in the lead role developing Karen into a fierce adventurer. There’s obvious strength in her character as she travels on a safari solo. The dynamic and chemistry she and Redford share is powerful. The tender moments they share are as sensual as anything.

Though the scenery is beautiful, the film is slow and long. It could have benefited from a shorter runtime, which would have made the plot more compelling.

Final say: A faltering triumph. ★★★☆☆