Review of Roman Holiday (1953) by Blake P — 17 Aug 2011

One of a kind! Princess Ann (Hepburn) is sick of the royal lifestyle, and suddenly decides to have a 24-hour break in the city. Once there, reporter Joe (Peck) finds her dazed and confused, and he helps her out.

He and his friend Irving (Albert) then give Ann a day in the life. Coincidentally, Joe and Ann fall in love, which leaves you asking, will she choose her kingdom or romance? "Roman Holiday" is not just another chick flick like so many people are seeming to say here (it's most likely because Audrey Hepburn stars).

This is an exceptional film that truly stands out from all of the other movies coming from the '50's. This isnt just another romantic comedy. It's stylish, witty, and in Rome, which is one of a kind considering how many rom-coms Paramount put out through the decade.

This really captures the essence of the perfect movie. Audrey Hepburn does a superb job in her first role, doing things that most actresses usually don't do until years of experience. That Oscar win was correct for once, and somehow came to be her only win ever.

Greg Peck is surprisingly excellent as well-- I was expecting him to not be too great considering he wasn't even nominated. What's wrong with the Academy? He really is almost equivalent to Hep on acting ability in this one, and I think though now it is realized that its one of his best roles, but then, he was just another leading man.

The coincidence was, it seems like this film was what propelled Hep and Peck to stardom. This could possibly be in the top five list of William Wyler's best films. Though he was very experienced, you can see his genius shining through in every moment, especially in the ending when we finally see someone pick reality over happy ending.

Bravo to him! "Roman Holiday" is a standout motion picture, and any fan of movies should have this on their must-watch list.