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The basic story involves Holly Golightl (Hepburn),
a New York, free-spirited party girl, who is a high-priced "escort",
an aspiring socialite who is looking for an older, rich man to
marry, to try to improve her life. When she starts falling in
love with a young novelist, Paul Varjak ("Fred"), played
by George Peppard, who moves into her apartment building, being
a gigolo, kept by an older woman (Patricia Neal). Both their lives
become more complicated, as a result of their relationship.
While considered by many as a "frothy comedy",
there are dramatic overtones throughout the movie. The moments
of intense sadness work with the moments of hopeful optimism to
make this film uplifting and unforgettable, a beautifully romantic
tale. "It has just the right balance of lightness and heaviness,
with well-explored characters that change before our eyes."
Audrey Hepburn, who was nominated for best actress for her role,
is a delight as Holly Golightly, who at first uses her life style
as a means of running from who she really is; her true self. Holly,
initially fun and wacky, turns poignant, as the talented Hepburn
skillfully broadens her character, especially late in the movie,
when we discover her true background.
Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard had great screen chemistry,
and were convincing as people in love, who are two of a kind.
They grow emotionally and improve their lives because of the love
and friendship they experienced together. After enduring difficult
situations in the storyline, they overcome the personal flaws
that made them unhappy in the first place, and move to another
more positive mindset that will bring a better way of life for
both of them.
Some critics have a problem with George Peppard,
as a stand-in for the young Truman Capote. Others think it was
terrific casting decision. "Hepburn and Peppard are undoubtedly
the cutest coupling to hit the silver screen." My feeling
is that if Truman, (who wrote the story), didn't mind, why should
I?
George Axelrod wrote the entertaining and sophisticated
screenplay, based on Truman Capote's novel. However, Hollywood
had Axelrod change the original dark and depressing ending, over
Capote's objections, to please the masses, and ended the film
on an upbeat note.
Mickey Rooney is a hoot as an Asian, upstairs neighbor. While
this role would undoubtedly not be played by a Caucasian today,
in these "politically correct" times, he's funny nonetheless.
Some say that the director, Blake Edwards, should've cut his scenes,
which would've cut down on the annoyance factor. Too much of a
funny bit, gets tiring, and overbearing.
Buddy Ebsen is terrific as Hepburn's first husband. He dominates
the scenes with Hepburn and Peppard, tugging at your heartstrings.
One of the best things about "Breakfast at Tiffanys,"
is the film's music. The film's score, and theme song, "Moon
River," both won Oscars. All the Henry Mancini music is memorable
and sets the perfect tone for this movie. |