The Great Gatsby (1974)

We recently had a "Great Gatsby Night" and rented and watched both versions back to back. I was sure that Robert Redford and Mia Farrow would have better chemistry together and act circles around DiCaprio and Mulligan. Boy was I wrong. While both movies are enjoyable and follow a very similar script, scene after scene DiCaprio made Redford look like an amateur. Tobey Maguire and Sam Waterston both do an excellent job of playing Nick Carraway. However Joel Edgerton completely shames Bruce Dern in playing Tom Buchanan. Even Carey Mulligan bested Mia Farrow in Daisy. While there were a number of things to enjoy in the 1974 version, the 2013 take is outstanding in every way and much more fun to watch. For the soundtrack Jay-Z is timeless, his music defines New York just as well in the 1920’s as it does today; it was a perfect fit. (Note: I gave the 2013 version 4/5 stars).

redford and waterson are like musical instrumets, warning us all of how 1030 and 1060 could turn into the horribly ungly american of 2007.. The best gatsby in terms of weaving the subconiuos of many different eras together,,, hints of KIn Henry the 8th and his partner in pysch the utopia man.stuck on the tower. in relation to the present Redord Gatsby relecys a civilized world againt th epainting of the mostous and hellish society which we are now.

I agree with Mike Nowacki's review. As a reader of TGG, I was thoroughly disappointed with the 1974 version. Not only does it veer from the book's plot, but it sucks the life out of the story. If you want to watch The Great Gatsby, watch the 2013 version: it follows the book almost to a tee, the legendary actors are perfect for their roles, and the overall watching experience is breathtaking.