Silver Screen (May-Oct 1939)

Vivien Leigh To play the famous character of Scarlett in "Gone with the Wind," and won't her little daughter be proud! Acme In Darjeeling, India, on November 5, 1913, the ScarlettVivien discussion really started. THEY were setting fire to Atlanta on the back lot of Selznick International Studio as production on "Gone with the Wind" finally got under way. A petite figure, a girl, watched the proceedings with avid interest. She had been brought to the spectacular event by Myron Selznick, brother of the famous David 0. And little did she know that a chance visit was to result in one of the most unexpected turns in her life. As she stood watching the fire, David 0. Selznick and George Cukor came towards her. Both of the men stared hard as they were introduced to her by Myron. It wasn't until David had almost drilled a hole in her by his continued staring that the thing happened. "Miss Leigh, you seem perfect for Scarlett O'Hara?" he said abruptly. "Would you consider testing for the part?" Vivien Leigh did consider it. And in a few days, as she sat in David's office, the perspiring public finally heard the dramatic announcement that Vivien Leigh was to play Scarlett. The long search was over. I was talking to Miss Leigh in her dressing room at the studio I had seen her do splendid work in such pictures as "Fire Over England," and "A Yank at Oxford." As I looked at her more closely, I was amazed to discover how much she resembled Scarlett. About five feet, three inches tall, with green 26 eyes, and sort of reddish-brown hair, she had all the characteristics so long associated with the fiery Southern belle in Margaret Mitchell's book. In a way I felt sorry for her, however. She was definitely in a spot. Hollywood columnists had not been any too kind to her since she was announced as the choice. And many irate fans had protested violently. She had, definitely, a very difficult job on her hands. Vivien was curled up in a very imposing looking chair. Curled, at least, the best she could considering she was surrounded by a long, flowing dress supported precariously by hoops. She certainly presented a dainty and appealing picture as she sat there waiting for me to bombard her with all my American brashness. No wonder interviewers, such as myself, frightened her, for we reporters here have a habit of being so abrupt we scare lots . of unsuspecting people. Of course, Vivien was more concerned because she wasn't sure whether or not I was one of the disgruntled correspondents who had heckled her as a choice. I wasn't. "Well," I began cautiously, "what do you think about finally landing the part?" She became suddenly enthusiastic. She must have sensed I was on her side, for her eyes glowed as she answerd me. "It's a great thrill— and an unexpected honor," she began in her charming and clipped speech. "You know, I just came here for a visit. In fact, I even had reservations for the trip back to England. I had no idea of playing Scarlett. Now, when I realize what has happened to me, I'm terribly excited and a little afraid.' "Then you are really glad to have been cast as Scarlett? "Certainly!" she exclaimed. Who wouldn't? It's a marvelous part. It is such a challenge, too, for me, for I don't consider myself as experienced as many of the fine American actresses who were mentioned for the part. It makes my job harder, because I know I have to be not just good, but great. "Scarlett means a lot to me. It's my big chance to prove to myself that I can play a marvelous role and do it well, lm Silver Screen