Movie Review: Roman Holiday

She is a princess, he is a journalist. She is bored of her puppet-like life, he has an interview with her. She runs away and is "rescued" by him. Together they explore the streets of Rome where the princess "lives" her life!

The tag line reads, "Audrey Hepburn at her Oscar-winning best in an immortal comedy-romance!"

How true is that tag line for this wonderful, light hearted, romantic, comedy! There is just 1 reason to watch this movie and it is Audrey Hepburn! Period!

The way she has expressed the emotions thru her face and her body language just has to be seen to be believed! The quiver of lips... the eyes that speak volumes without the tongue uttering a single word....

The graceful princess romping on the streets of Rome, protected and yet uninhibited, naive, carefree and happy! [Can you tell that I am completely smitten?! :-))]

Her acting in the movie can be a guide book for any woman in need of a lesson for exhibiting class! Absolutely mesmerising stuff!

Gregory Peck plays the Journo and Eddie Albert, the much needed, yet elegant, side kick in any romantic comedy! (he was literally kicked a few times in the movie by Gregory.) His role showcases that side kicks do not have to demean themselves on screen for the sake of comedy! Something that film makers of today can learn from this classy movie.

Released in 1953 - but still completely fresh and with a lot of repeat value - the movie bagged 3 Oscars and was nominated for 7 more! Needless to say, Hepburn got the "Best Actress in a Leading Role" for her superb portrayal of Princess Ann - a well deserved win indeed!

The chemistry between the lead pair is very natural. Gregory plays the quintessential gentleman - macho, understanding and protective, but with a vested interest. For the better part of the movie, Princess Audrey is a bubbly girl, who wants to break away from the monotonous routine and have some fun, while retaining her class! Their wonderfully restrained acting is what leaves you guessing and thinking "what happens next" even though this movie is no mystery! (The movie has been directed by Williams Wyler.)

A definite collector's item for any self-respecting movie aficionado!!!!! The fact that its in black and white only enhances the charm of this Roman Holiday!