Review of Roman Holiday (1953) by Matt G — 03 Dec 2015

So, I saw this many years ago and again just yesterday. But is it really a classic? let me explain. It's not nearly as romantic as I had thought it was. They are basically both using each other during her day off as a princess.

She is using him just to do activities she has always wanted to do but is forbidden to do because of her fame and status. And he's a reporter who is just after the 5 grand his boss promised him which was a small fortune those days.

And, you expect me to believe virtually no one recognizes her as she travels around Rome despite being on the front page of the newspaper? And, I found the brawl discomforting; the film would have been better off without it.

And, you expect me to believe that after physically brawling with half a dozen men, he has no injuries, no cuts, no bruises, no black eye?? But, ultimately the allure of Audrey, and the chemistry between them overrides all this.

And the ending is FANTASTIC. It's in the subtle way he lets her know he won't scandalize her by publishing what he knows. And when Eddie Albert terrifies her by showing her his camera, he quickly makes up for it by handing over the photos.

And the greatest part of all, that haunting unforgettable last look she gives to Gregory Peck, full of pain, anguish, but overridden by gratitude and love. Yes, all that in just one unforgettable look.