Amazon.co.uk Review
No film better utilises Audrey Hepburn's flighty charm and svelte beauty than this romantic adaptation of Truman Capote's novella. Hepburn's urban sophisticate Holly Golightly, an enchanting neurotic living off the gifts of gentlemen, is a bewitching figure in designer dresses and costume jewellery. George Peppard is her upstairs neighbour, a struggling writer and "kept" man financed by a steely older woman (Patricia Neal). His growing friendship with the lonely Holly soon turns to love and threatens the delicate balance of both of their compromised lives. Taking liberties with Capote's bittersweet story, director Blake Edwards and screenwriter George Axelrod turn New York into a city of lovers and create a poignant portrait of Holly, a frustrated romantic with a secret past and a hidden vulnerability. Composer Henry Mancini earned Oscars for the hit song "Moon River" and his tastefully romantic score. The only sour note in the whole film is Mickey Rooney's demeaning performance as the apartment's Japanese manager, an offensively overdone stereotype even in 1961. The rest of the film has weathered the decades well. Edwards's elegant yet light touch, Axelrod's generous screenplay and Hepburn's mix of knowing experience and naivety combine to create one of the great screen romances and a refined slice of high-society bohemian chic. --Sean Axmaker
Customer Reviews:
Must See film.......2007-10-05
This Blake Edward adaptation of Truman Capote's classic novella is ideally cast. New York playgirl Holly Golightly, played by Audrey Hepburn, puzzles a writer who moves into her building, played by George Peppard.
Holly has her life planned out. She plans to marry a rich man who is under 50 years of age. Her and the writer, Paul Harvak, start off being friends. And over the course of the movie, he falls in love with her. She of course has planned to run off and marry a man of means. Their relationship bounces back and forth, but is always leading to what we hope will be the inevitable ending. Here we have a romantic movie that moves from the cute to sweet.
This movie is extremely well cast, directed and scored. A most memorable song is Henry Mancini's "Moon River". Which is just perfect for this movie. And even until this day, there is not an actress that could possibly replace Audrey Hepburn. She is this movie, and it has to be her most stellar performance of all time. George Peppard is also very good as well. Worth watching.
Beloved but gooey.......2007-08-21
I'll admit I'm in the minority about Breakfast at Tiffany's. The movie just doesn't touch me. Here are some things that put me off.
--The whole movie seems to me to be self consciously fey.
--George Peppard has never seemed to me to be credible as the leading man. There is always something smart alecky and wooden (at the same time) about the guy.
--Audrey Hepburn is such a lady, carefully groomed and dressed, always gracious. She's a young grande dame. I have liked her best in the two bookends of her career, Roman Holiday and Robin and Marian. I probably would have a different view if she'd made the movie earlier. In Roman Holiday she really was young, and came across as eager for new things. Maybe that was just good acting, but by the time she made Breakfast, eight or nine years had passed. She's become the great actress playing kooky. For me, it shows.
--Micky Rooney and his character are both awful. If he'd played it in blackface he'd have been a great Stepin Fetchit.
However, Mancini captures the moment with his Moon River theme. I think one of the things that makes the theme work is Johnny Mercer's lyrics. The guy was extraordinary in everything he wrote. "...my huckleberry friend..." is a phrase of genius...although I'm not sure what a huckleberry friend is.
Disappointing period piece.......2007-08-21
I do acknowledge that this is rated as a classic, but after watching it I was really at a loss to explain why.. It manages to cram about half-an-hours worthwhile plot into its 109 minutes. Apart from that it's just largely unfunny froth, with a terribly cod Japanese impression from Mickey Rooney as the nadir of the non-humour.
The remainder is just glib "cool and trendy" patter, interspersed with early 60's party shots, documenting the parties we are supposed to wish we'd gone to...
It manages one touching moment at the finish, when Audrey Hepburn finds her cat which she has booted out of the car five minutes earlier - the rest is trite, vapid and forgettable.
After about an hour I was yawning, and that is about the only final summary I can give this film.
Meet Audrey Hepburn for Breakfast at Tiffany's.......2007-06-08
A beautiful debonair named Holly Golightly leaves her husband and moves into Manhattan with an ambition to meet a wealthy man, marry him, and then name her pet cat, and enjoy the rest of her life. This sounds like an ambition of a typical young woman, but when Holly meets a young writer named Paul Varjak; there is no love at first; but that changes gradually and love blossoms. One would like to think this is a love story, but not quite, the author is not Erich Segal. Truman Capote wrote this short novel about a woman who is in pursuit of a high society life and never finds one; and she never grows up. The movie deviates from Capote's book in several areas. Capote wrote this book with Marilyn Monroe on his mind for the lead role, but the role went to Audrey Hepburn; director Blake Edwards couldn't have made a better choice. This is one of the classic movies of Hepburn in which every member of the audience becomes enchanted and captivated with the beauty and passion of Holly played by Hepburn. This wisp-thin actress, carrying a long cigarette holder is one of the iconic images of American Cinema.
In the final part of the movie when Holly was dumped by her rich Brazilian fiancée, her friend Paul Varjak helps her recollect; and in a reconciliatory term she changes her heart only to fall in love with Varjak. This scene was shot in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan that adds a touch of pure romance and a grand finale to the endless pursuit of Holly in search of a rich man. Everyone who loves happy ending would love this; but no one was unhappy than Capote who was upset for the change; he wanted Holly to remain as a mysterious woman who never learns and never gives up her dream. My favorite part of the movie is the film's on-location opening sequence, in which Holly gazes into a Tiffany's display window after getting out from a cab in mid-town Manhattan, while eating a pastry; and of course the scene kissing Varjak in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan. This movie shows more scenes of streets of Manhattan than any other movie I have seen. I highly recommend listening to the hit song of the American rock group Deep Blue Somthing's "Breakfast at Tiffany's," which adds to the enjoyment. Of course the music in the movie is strongly supported by Henry Mancini.
Many of us from the days of "A Team" know George Peppard as a tough talking Colonel Smith. It is a pleasant surprise for many of us to see this DVD and witness the tender side of young Peppard as Paul Varjak. Paul is strong, yet remains as an acquaintance of Holly but gradually he sees the feminine side of Holly, who is vulnerable, yet romantic in her heart. Blake Edwards indicated at one stage that he might not have cast Peppard if he were to do this all over again. We are unsure if there was a problem in their working relationship or Edwards was unhappy with his casting. I for one who was most disappointed to learn that Peppard was not nominated for academy award for his role in this movie. Buddy Ebsen and Mickey Rooney have limited role; yet they delight the audience with their talents and craftsmanship.
Crossing Moon River, in style.......2006-07-04
Yesterday I had a sudden craving for a classic movie. I didn't know where the urge came from, or how long it would last, so I figured that I should choose a very special movie just in case it vanished as quickly as it came. Fortunately for me, I chose Breakfast at Tiffany's, and now I think I'll go hunting for more of the same.
In a nutshell, Holly Golightly (a radiant Audrey Hepburn) is an unconventional young woman who lives life on the edge on Manhattan's Upper East Side. She's very impulsive and money-oriented, and spends her evenings flirting with older male acquaintances upon whose generosity she survives and thrives. Her favorite place in the world is Tiffany's, the famous jewellery store that calms her down on "mean red" days. Her erratic behavior irritates her upstairs neighbor, an unfortunately cast Mickey Rooney, who's as Japanese as American Pie, and quite offensive as a stereotype. She's also friendly with an imprisoned mob boss named Sally Tomato whom she visits weekly and talks about the weather.
When a struggling writer (George Peppard) moves into the building, she instantly recognizes him as a kindred spirit, especially when she learns that he also accepts money from the opposite sex for services rendered. Finding in him a sympathetic ear, a sounding board and willing accomplice all in one, the two become friends through good times and bad, even when her husband Doc Golightly (Buddy Ebsen) shows up with an ultimatum of his own. Male friends come and go, and bad luck seems to follow her around, but Holly bears it all in style with a gorgeous wardrobe, an unsinkable attitude, a long cigarette holder and plenty of booze for back-up.
A classic movie deserves an award winning soundtrack, and this movie has one mega-famous signature song. Audrey Hepburn may not have the best singing voice on the world, but when she sings Henry Mancini's "Moon River" you'll find yourself singing along too.
Like Tiffany's, this movie is another sure-fire cure for the mean reds.
Amanda Richards
Customer Reviews:
Showing some age, but Hepburn has timeless charm.......2005-12-20
The iconic presence of Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly, George Peppard's finest performance, and the classic Mancini theme music make this one of the most famous films of the 1960's, if not, perhaps, one of the finest.
Based on a Truman Capote story, Hepburn plays a New York call girl consumed by her own delusions. She is a fake, but a genuine one: she has fled some mysterious past, lives from day to day, and dreams of marriage to some millionaire and the Prince Charming route to upward mobility and respectability. Until her dreams come true, she lives with her fantasies, bored, unable even to bother to name her cat.
Peppard is an unproductive writer who makes a living as the kept plaything of an older, rich, married woman. He moves in to the same apartment block as Hepburn, and quickly falls for her charms. Hepburn, of course, is irresistible. No nudity, no sex scenes, everything coy and 'decent', but Hepburn simply sizzles. 'Irresistible' hardly does her justice.
The film has aged somewhat - the 1961 party scenes and social mores look quaint. The sleaziness of the principals' lifestyle is barely commented upon. But "Breakfast at Tiffany's" retains a magnetism of its own. A lightweight romantic comedy, a bit sentimental and sexually sanitised, it remains a compulsive, entertaining tale. It has magical moments - Hepburn, of course, established Holly as an iconic figure of the 60's, and you wonder why George Peppard never recaptured the presence he exerts throughout this film, but watch out for a marvellous little cameo sequence in Tiffany's. Watch out, also, for an appalling comedy role by Mickey Rooney, playing a Japanese caricature which would probably be banned today.
Buying this package may appeal to those of you who are avid collectors of anything to do with the film or Hepburn, but you otherwise need to ask yourself if you need the 'extras' provided with this one, for, if you simply want to watch the film, there are cheaper options.
Amazon.co.uk Review
No film better utilises Audrey Hepburn's flighty charm and svelte beauty than this romantic adaptation of Truman Capote's novella. Hepburn's urban sophisticate Holly Golightly, an enchanting neurotic living off the gifts of gentlemen, is a bewitching figure in designer dresses and costume jewellery. George Peppard is her upstairs neighbour, a struggling writer and "kept" man financed by a steely older woman (Patricia Neal). His growing friendship with the lonely Holly soon turns to love and threatens the delicate balance of both of their compromised lives. Taking liberties with Capote's bittersweet story, director Blake Edwards and screenwriter George Axelrod turn New York into a city of lovers and create a poignant portrait of Holly, a frustrated romantic with a secret past and a hidden vulnerability. Composer Henry Mancini earned Oscars for the hit song "Moon River" and his tastefully romantic score. The only sour note in the whole film is Mickey Rooney's demeaning performance as the apartment's Japanese manager, an offensively overdone stereotype even in 1961. The rest of the film has weathered the decades well. Edwards's elegant yet light touch, Axelrod's generous screenplay and Hepburn's mix of knowing experience and naivety combine to create one of the great screen romances and a refined slice of high-society bohemian chic. --Sean Axmaker
Customer Reviews:
Must See film.......2007-10-05
This Blake Edward adaptation of Truman Capote's classic novella is ideally cast. New York playgirl Holly Golightly, played by Audrey Hepburn, puzzles a writer who moves into her building, played by George Peppard.
Holly has her life planned out. She plans to marry a rich man who is under 50 years of age. Her and the writer, Paul Harvak, start off being friends. And over the course of the movie, he falls in love with her. She of course has planned to run off and marry a man of means. Their relationship bounces back and forth, but is always leading to what we hope will be the inevitable ending. Here we have a romantic movie that moves from the cute to sweet.
This movie is extremely well cast, directed and scored. A most memorable song is Henry Mancini's "Moon River". Which is just perfect for this movie. And even until this day, there is not an actress that could possibly replace Audrey Hepburn. She is this movie, and it has to be her most stellar performance of all time. George Peppard is also very good as well. Worth watching.
Beloved but gooey.......2007-08-21
I'll admit I'm in the minority about Breakfast at Tiffany's. The movie just doesn't touch me. Here are some things that put me off.
--The whole movie seems to me to be self consciously fey.
--George Peppard has never seemed to me to be credible as the leading man. There is always something smart alecky and wooden (at the same time) about the guy.
--Audrey Hepburn is such a lady, carefully groomed and dressed, always gracious. She's a young grande dame. I have liked her best in the two bookends of her career, Roman Holiday and Robin and Marian. I probably would have a different view if she'd made the movie earlier. In Roman Holiday she really was young, and came across as eager for new things. Maybe that was just good acting, but by the time she made Breakfast, eight or nine years had passed. She's become the great actress playing kooky. For me, it shows.
--Micky Rooney and his character are both awful. If he'd played it in blackface he'd have been a great Stepin Fetchit.
However, Mancini captures the moment with his Moon River theme. I think one of the things that makes the theme work is Johnny Mercer's lyrics. The guy was extraordinary in everything he wrote. "...my huckleberry friend..." is a phrase of genius...although I'm not sure what a huckleberry friend is.
Disappointing period piece.......2007-08-21
I do acknowledge that this is rated as a classic, but after watching it I was really at a loss to explain why.. It manages to cram about half-an-hours worthwhile plot into its 109 minutes. Apart from that it's just largely unfunny froth, with a terribly cod Japanese impression from Mickey Rooney as the nadir of the non-humour.
The remainder is just glib "cool and trendy" patter, interspersed with early 60's party shots, documenting the parties we are supposed to wish we'd gone to...
It manages one touching moment at the finish, when Audrey Hepburn finds her cat which she has booted out of the car five minutes earlier - the rest is trite, vapid and forgettable.
After about an hour I was yawning, and that is about the only final summary I can give this film.
Meet Audrey Hepburn for Breakfast at Tiffany's.......2007-06-08
A beautiful debonair named Holly Golightly leaves her husband and moves into Manhattan with an ambition to meet a wealthy man, marry him, and then name her pet cat, and enjoy the rest of her life. This sounds like an ambition of a typical young woman, but when Holly meets a young writer named Paul Varjak; there is no love at first; but that changes gradually and love blossoms. One would like to think this is a love story, but not quite, the author is not Erich Segal. Truman Capote wrote this short novel about a woman who is in pursuit of a high society life and never finds one; and she never grows up. The movie deviates from Capote's book in several areas. Capote wrote this book with Marilyn Monroe on his mind for the lead role, but the role went to Audrey Hepburn; director Blake Edwards couldn't have made a better choice. This is one of the classic movies of Hepburn in which every member of the audience becomes enchanted and captivated with the beauty and passion of Holly played by Hepburn. This wisp-thin actress, carrying a long cigarette holder is one of the iconic images of American Cinema.
In the final part of the movie when Holly was dumped by her rich Brazilian fiancée, her friend Paul Varjak helps her recollect; and in a reconciliatory term she changes her heart only to fall in love with Varjak. This scene was shot in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan that adds a touch of pure romance and a grand finale to the endless pursuit of Holly in search of a rich man. Everyone who loves happy ending would love this; but no one was unhappy than Capote who was upset for the change; he wanted Holly to remain as a mysterious woman who never learns and never gives up her dream. My favorite part of the movie is the film's on-location opening sequence, in which Holly gazes into a Tiffany's display window after getting out from a cab in mid-town Manhattan, while eating a pastry; and of course the scene kissing Varjak in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan. This movie shows more scenes of streets of Manhattan than any other movie I have seen. I highly recommend listening to the hit song of the American rock group Deep Blue Somthing's "Breakfast at Tiffany's," which adds to the enjoyment. Of course the music in the movie is strongly supported by Henry Mancini.
Many of us from the days of "A Team" know George Peppard as a tough talking Colonel Smith. It is a pleasant surprise for many of us to see this DVD and witness the tender side of young Peppard as Paul Varjak. Paul is strong, yet remains as an acquaintance of Holly but gradually he sees the feminine side of Holly, who is vulnerable, yet romantic in her heart. Blake Edwards indicated at one stage that he might not have cast Peppard if he were to do this all over again. We are unsure if there was a problem in their working relationship or Edwards was unhappy with his casting. I for one who was most disappointed to learn that Peppard was not nominated for academy award for his role in this movie. Buddy Ebsen and Mickey Rooney have limited role; yet they delight the audience with their talents and craftsmanship.
Crossing Moon River, in style.......2006-07-04
Yesterday I had a sudden craving for a classic movie. I didn't know where the urge came from, or how long it would last, so I figured that I should choose a very special movie just in case it vanished as quickly as it came. Fortunately for me, I chose Breakfast at Tiffany's, and now I think I'll go hunting for more of the same.
In a nutshell, Holly Golightly (a radiant Audrey Hepburn) is an unconventional young woman who lives life on the edge on Manhattan's Upper East Side. She's very impulsive and money-oriented, and spends her evenings flirting with older male acquaintances upon whose generosity she survives and thrives. Her favorite place in the world is Tiffany's, the famous jewellery store that calms her down on "mean red" days. Her erratic behavior irritates her upstairs neighbor, an unfortunately cast Mickey Rooney, who's as Japanese as American Pie, and quite offensive as a stereotype. She's also friendly with an imprisoned mob boss named Sally Tomato whom she visits weekly and talks about the weather.
When a struggling writer (George Peppard) moves into the building, she instantly recognizes him as a kindred spirit, especially when she learns that he also accepts money from the opposite sex for services rendered. Finding in him a sympathetic ear, a sounding board and willing accomplice all in one, the two become friends through good times and bad, even when her husband Doc Golightly (Buddy Ebsen) shows up with an ultimatum of his own. Male friends come and go, and bad luck seems to follow her around, but Holly bears it all in style with a gorgeous wardrobe, an unsinkable attitude, a long cigarette holder and plenty of booze for back-up.
A classic movie deserves an award winning soundtrack, and this movie has one mega-famous signature song. Audrey Hepburn may not have the best singing voice on the world, but when she sings Henry Mancini's "Moon River" you'll find yourself singing along too.
Like Tiffany's, this movie is another sure-fire cure for the mean reds.
Amanda Richards
Customer Reviews:
Meet Audrey Hepburn for Breakfast at Tiffany's.......2007-06-08
A beautiful debonair named Holly Golightly leaves her husband and moves into Manhattan with an ambition to meet a wealthy man, marry him, and then name her pet cat, and enjoy the rest of her life. This sounds like an ambition of a typical young woman, but when Holly meets a young writer named Paul Varjak; there is no love at first; but that changes gradually and love blossoms. One would like to think this is a love story, but not quite, the author is not Erich Segal. Truman Capote wrote this short novel about a woman who is in pursuit of a high society life and never finds one; and she never grows up. The movie deviates from Capote's book in several areas. Capote wrote this book with Marilyn Monroe on his mind for the lead role, but the role went to Audrey Hepburn; director Blake Edwards couldn't have made a better choice. This is one of the classic movies of Hepburn in which every member of the audience becomes enchanted and captivated with the beauty and passion of Holly played by Hepburn. This wisp-thin actress, carrying a long cigarette holder is one of the iconic images of American Cinema.
In the final part of the movie when Holly was dumped by her rich Brazilian fiancée, her friend Paul Varjak helps her recollect; and in a reconciliatory term she changes her heart only to fall in love with Varjak. This scene was shot in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan that adds a touch of pure romance and a grand finale to the endless pursuit of Holly in search of a rich man. Everyone who loves happy ending would love this; but no one was unhappy than Capote who was upset for the change; he wanted Holly to remain as a mysterious woman who never learns and never gives up her dream. My favorite part of the movie is the film's on-location opening sequence, in which Holly gazes into a Tiffany's display window after getting out from a cab in mid-town Manhattan, while eating a pastry; and of course the scene kissing Varjak in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan. This movie shows more scenes of streets of Manhattan than any other movie I have seen. I highly recommend listening to the hit song of the American rock group Deep Blue Something's "Breakfast at Tiffany's," which adds to the enjoyment. Of course the music in the movie is strongly supported by Henry Mancini.
Many of us from the days of "A Team" know George Peppard as a tough talking Colonel Smith. It is a pleasant surprise for some of us to see this DVD and witness the tender side of young Peppard as Paul Varjak. Paul is strong, yet remains as an acquaintance of Holly but gradually he sees the feminine side of Holly, who is vulnerable, yet romantic in her heart. Blake Edwards indicated at one stage that he might not have cast Peppard if he were to do this all over again. We are unsure if there was a problem in their working relationship or Edwards was unhappy with his casting. I for one who was most disappointed to learn that Peppard was not nominated for academy award for his role in this movie. Buddy Ebsen and Mickey Rooney have limited roles; yet they delight the audience with their talents and craftsmanship.
Great fun!.......2007-02-11
I'd never seen breakfast at Tiffany's but as its such a classic I thought I should. It follows the story of Holly Golightly looking for a man with money, and her inevitable romances. It's a really fun film, not to be taken too seriously. It's of course a romance with a happy ending, but it's not too cheesy or sickening, it has a couple of sad moments. I really love the characters, they are so individual and imperfect, it's not a story you will see in another film. I really loved the film and I'll certainly watch it again. If you have read the book apparently the film is really different so don't be dissapointed by that.
The DVD has a few really interesting extras, giving you a little information about Tiffany's and the choosing of actors for the parts. The extras probablly take less than an hour to watch but its good that its not loaded with unecessary extras.
Highly recomended to anyone who likes a sweet romance, especially for those who like the sixties too!
Amazon.co.uk Review
No film better utilises Audrey Hepburn's flighty charm and svelte beauty than this romantic adaptation of Truman Capote's novella. Hepburn's urban sophisticate Holly Golightly, an enchanting neurotic living off the gifts of gentlemen, is a bewitching figure in designer dresses and costume jewellery. George Peppard is her upstairs neighbour, a struggling writer and "kept" man financed by a steely older woman (Patricia Neal). His growing friendship with the lonely Holly soon turns to love and threatens the delicate balance of both of their compromised lives. Taking liberties with Capote's bittersweet story, director Blake Edwards and screenwriter George Axelrod turn New York into a city of lovers and create a poignant portrait of Holly, a frustrated romantic with a secret past and a hidden vulnerability. Composer Henry Mancini earned Oscars for the hit song "Moon River" and his tastefully romantic score. The only sour note in the whole film is Mickey Rooney's demeaning performance as the apartment's Japanese manager, an offensively overdone stereotype even in 1961. The rest of the film has weathered the decades well. Edwards's elegant yet light touch, Axelrod's generous screenplay and Hepburn's mix of knowing experience and naivety combine to create one of the great screen romances and a refined slice of high-society bohemian chic. --Sean Axmaker
Customer Reviews:
Must See film.......2007-10-05
This Blake Edward adaptation of Truman Capote's classic novella is ideally cast. New York playgirl Holly Golightly, played by Audrey Hepburn, puzzles a writer who moves into her building, played by George Peppard.
Holly has her life planned out. She plans to marry a rich man who is under 50 years of age. Her and the writer, Paul Harvak, start off being friends. And over the course of the movie, he falls in love with her. She of course has planned to run off and marry a man of means. Their relationship bounces back and forth, but is always leading to what we hope will be the inevitable ending. Here we have a romantic movie that moves from the cute to sweet.
This movie is extremely well cast, directed and scored. A most memorable song is Henry Mancini's "Moon River". Which is just perfect for this movie. And even until this day, there is not an actress that could possibly replace Audrey Hepburn. She is this movie, and it has to be her most stellar performance of all time. George Peppard is also very good as well. Worth watching.
Beloved but gooey.......2007-08-21
I'll admit I'm in the minority about Breakfast at Tiffany's. The movie just doesn't touch me. Here are some things that put me off.
--The whole movie seems to me to be self consciously fey.
--George Peppard has never seemed to me to be credible as the leading man. There is always something smart alecky and wooden (at the same time) about the guy.
--Audrey Hepburn is such a lady, carefully groomed and dressed, always gracious. She's a young grande dame. I have liked her best in the two bookends of her career, Roman Holiday and Robin and Marian. I probably would have a different view if she'd made the movie earlier. In Roman Holiday she really was young, and came across as eager for new things. Maybe that was just good acting, but by the time she made Breakfast, eight or nine years had passed. She's become the great actress playing kooky. For me, it shows.
--Micky Rooney and his character are both awful. If he'd played it in blackface he'd have been a great Stepin Fetchit.
However, Mancini captures the moment with his Moon River theme. I think one of the things that makes the theme work is Johnny Mercer's lyrics. The guy was extraordinary in everything he wrote. "...my huckleberry friend..." is a phrase of genius...although I'm not sure what a huckleberry friend is.
Disappointing period piece.......2007-08-21
I do acknowledge that this is rated as a classic, but after watching it I was really at a loss to explain why.. It manages to cram about half-an-hours worthwhile plot into its 109 minutes. Apart from that it's just largely unfunny froth, with a terribly cod Japanese impression from Mickey Rooney as the nadir of the non-humour.
The remainder is just glib "cool and trendy" patter, interspersed with early 60's party shots, documenting the parties we are supposed to wish we'd gone to...
It manages one touching moment at the finish, when Audrey Hepburn finds her cat which she has booted out of the car five minutes earlier - the rest is trite, vapid and forgettable.
After about an hour I was yawning, and that is about the only final summary I can give this film.
Meet Audrey Hepburn for Breakfast at Tiffany's.......2007-06-08
A beautiful debonair named Holly Golightly leaves her husband and moves into Manhattan with an ambition to meet a wealthy man, marry him, and then name her pet cat, and enjoy the rest of her life. This sounds like an ambition of a typical young woman, but when Holly meets a young writer named Paul Varjak; there is no love at first; but that changes gradually and love blossoms. One would like to think this is a love story, but not quite, the author is not Erich Segal. Truman Capote wrote this short novel about a woman who is in pursuit of a high society life and never finds one; and she never grows up. The movie deviates from Capote's book in several areas. Capote wrote this book with Marilyn Monroe on his mind for the lead role, but the role went to Audrey Hepburn; director Blake Edwards couldn't have made a better choice. This is one of the classic movies of Hepburn in which every member of the audience becomes enchanted and captivated with the beauty and passion of Holly played by Hepburn. This wisp-thin actress, carrying a long cigarette holder is one of the iconic images of American Cinema.
In the final part of the movie when Holly was dumped by her rich Brazilian fiancée, her friend Paul Varjak helps her recollect; and in a reconciliatory term she changes her heart only to fall in love with Varjak. This scene was shot in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan that adds a touch of pure romance and a grand finale to the endless pursuit of Holly in search of a rich man. Everyone who loves happy ending would love this; but no one was unhappy than Capote who was upset for the change; he wanted Holly to remain as a mysterious woman who never learns and never gives up her dream. My favorite part of the movie is the film's on-location opening sequence, in which Holly gazes into a Tiffany's display window after getting out from a cab in mid-town Manhattan, while eating a pastry; and of course the scene kissing Varjak in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan. This movie shows more scenes of streets of Manhattan than any other movie I have seen. I highly recommend listening to the hit song of the American rock group Deep Blue Somthing's "Breakfast at Tiffany's," which adds to the enjoyment. Of course the music in the movie is strongly supported by Henry Mancini.
Many of us from the days of "A Team" know George Peppard as a tough talking Colonel Smith. It is a pleasant surprise for many of us to see this DVD and witness the tender side of young Peppard as Paul Varjak. Paul is strong, yet remains as an acquaintance of Holly but gradually he sees the feminine side of Holly, who is vulnerable, yet romantic in her heart. Blake Edwards indicated at one stage that he might not have cast Peppard if he were to do this all over again. We are unsure if there was a problem in their working relationship or Edwards was unhappy with his casting. I for one who was most disappointed to learn that Peppard was not nominated for academy award for his role in this movie. Buddy Ebsen and Mickey Rooney have limited role; yet they delight the audience with their talents and craftsmanship.
Crossing Moon River, in style.......2006-07-04
Yesterday I had a sudden craving for a classic movie. I didn't know where the urge came from, or how long it would last, so I figured that I should choose a very special movie just in case it vanished as quickly as it came. Fortunately for me, I chose Breakfast at Tiffany's, and now I think I'll go hunting for more of the same.
In a nutshell, Holly Golightly (a radiant Audrey Hepburn) is an unconventional young woman who lives life on the edge on Manhattan's Upper East Side. She's very impulsive and money-oriented, and spends her evenings flirting with older male acquaintances upon whose generosity she survives and thrives. Her favorite place in the world is Tiffany's, the famous jewellery store that calms her down on "mean red" days. Her erratic behavior irritates her upstairs neighbor, an unfortunately cast Mickey Rooney, who's as Japanese as American Pie, and quite offensive as a stereotype. She's also friendly with an imprisoned mob boss named Sally Tomato whom she visits weekly and talks about the weather.
When a struggling writer (George Peppard) moves into the building, she instantly recognizes him as a kindred spirit, especially when she learns that he also accepts money from the opposite sex for services rendered. Finding in him a sympathetic ear, a sounding board and willing accomplice all in one, the two become friends through good times and bad, even when her husband Doc Golightly (Buddy Ebsen) shows up with an ultimatum of his own. Male friends come and go, and bad luck seems to follow her around, but Holly bears it all in style with a gorgeous wardrobe, an unsinkable attitude, a long cigarette holder and plenty of booze for back-up.
A classic movie deserves an award winning soundtrack, and this movie has one mega-famous signature song. Audrey Hepburn may not have the best singing voice on the world, but when she sings Henry Mancini's "Moon River" you'll find yourself singing along too.
Like Tiffany's, this movie is another sure-fire cure for the mean reds.
Amanda Richards
Amazon.co.uk Review
No film better utilises Audrey Hepburn's flighty charm and svelte beauty than this romantic adaptation of Truman Capote's novella. Hepburn's urban sophisticate Holly Golightly, an enchanting neurotic living off the gifts of gentlemen, is a bewitching figure in designer dresses and costume jewellery. George Peppard is her upstairs neighbour, a struggling writer and "kept" man financed by a steely older woman (Patricia Neal). His growing friendship with the lonely Holly soon turns to love and threatens the delicate balance of both of their compromised lives. Taking liberties with Capote's bittersweet story, director Blake Edwards and screenwriter George Axelrod turn New York into a city of lovers and create a poignant portrait of Holly, a frustrated romantic with a secret past and a hidden vulnerability. Composer Henry Mancini earned Oscars for the hit song "Moon River" and his tastefully romantic score. The only sour note in the whole film is Mickey Rooney's demeaning performance as the apartment's Japanese manager, an offensively overdone stereotype even in 1961. The rest of the film has weathered the decades well. Edwards's elegant yet light touch, Axelrod's generous screenplay and Hepburn's mix of knowing experience and naivety combine to create one of the great screen romances and a refined slice of high-society bohemian chic. --Sean Axmaker
Customer Reviews:
Must See film.......2007-10-05
This Blake Edward adaptation of Truman Capote's classic novella is ideally cast. New York playgirl Holly Golightly, played by Audrey Hepburn, puzzles a writer who moves into her building, played by George Peppard.
Holly has her life planned out. She plans to marry a rich man who is under 50 years of age. Her and the writer, Paul Harvak, start off being friends. And over the course of the movie, he falls in love with her. She of course has planned to run off and marry a man of means. Their relationship bounces back and forth, but is always leading to what we hope will be the inevitable ending. Here we have a romantic movie that moves from the cute to sweet.
This movie is extremely well cast, directed and scored. A most memorable song is Henry Mancini's "Moon River". Which is just perfect for this movie. And even until this day, there is not an actress that could possibly replace Audrey Hepburn. She is this movie, and it has to be her most stellar performance of all time. George Peppard is also very good as well. Worth watching.
Beloved but gooey.......2007-08-21
I'll admit I'm in the minority about Breakfast at Tiffany's. The movie just doesn't touch me. Here are some things that put me off.
--The whole movie seems to me to be self consciously fey.
--George Peppard has never seemed to me to be credible as the leading man. There is always something smart alecky and wooden (at the same time) about the guy.
--Audrey Hepburn is such a lady, carefully groomed and dressed, always gracious. She's a young grande dame. I have liked her best in the two bookends of her career, Roman Holiday and Robin and Marian. I probably would have a different view if she'd made the movie earlier. In Roman Holiday she really was young, and came across as eager for new things. Maybe that was just good acting, but by the time she made Breakfast, eight or nine years had passed. She's become the great actress playing kooky. For me, it shows.
--Micky Rooney and his character are both awful. If he'd played it in blackface he'd have been a great Stepin Fetchit.
However, Mancini captures the moment with his Moon River theme. I think one of the things that makes the theme work is Johnny Mercer's lyrics. The guy was extraordinary in everything he wrote. "...my huckleberry friend..." is a phrase of genius...although I'm not sure what a huckleberry friend is.
Disappointing period piece.......2007-08-21
I do acknowledge that this is rated as a classic, but after watching it I was really at a loss to explain why.. It manages to cram about half-an-hours worthwhile plot into its 109 minutes. Apart from that it's just largely unfunny froth, with a terribly cod Japanese impression from Mickey Rooney as the nadir of the non-humour.
The remainder is just glib "cool and trendy" patter, interspersed with early 60's party shots, documenting the parties we are supposed to wish we'd gone to...
It manages one touching moment at the finish, when Audrey Hepburn finds her cat which she has booted out of the car five minutes earlier - the rest is trite, vapid and forgettable.
After about an hour I was yawning, and that is about the only final summary I can give this film.
Meet Audrey Hepburn for Breakfast at Tiffany's.......2007-06-08
A beautiful debonair named Holly Golightly leaves her husband and moves into Manhattan with an ambition to meet a wealthy man, marry him, and then name her pet cat, and enjoy the rest of her life. This sounds like an ambition of a typical young woman, but when Holly meets a young writer named Paul Varjak; there is no love at first; but that changes gradually and love blossoms. One would like to think this is a love story, but not quite, the author is not Erich Segal. Truman Capote wrote this short novel about a woman who is in pursuit of a high society life and never finds one; and she never grows up. The movie deviates from Capote's book in several areas. Capote wrote this book with Marilyn Monroe on his mind for the lead role, but the role went to Audrey Hepburn; director Blake Edwards couldn't have made a better choice. This is one of the classic movies of Hepburn in which every member of the audience becomes enchanted and captivated with the beauty and passion of Holly played by Hepburn. This wisp-thin actress, carrying a long cigarette holder is one of the iconic images of American Cinema.
In the final part of the movie when Holly was dumped by her rich Brazilian fiancée, her friend Paul Varjak helps her recollect; and in a reconciliatory term she changes her heart only to fall in love with Varjak. This scene was shot in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan that adds a touch of pure romance and a grand finale to the endless pursuit of Holly in search of a rich man. Everyone who loves happy ending would love this; but no one was unhappy than Capote who was upset for the change; he wanted Holly to remain as a mysterious woman who never learns and never gives up her dream. My favorite part of the movie is the film's on-location opening sequence, in which Holly gazes into a Tiffany's display window after getting out from a cab in mid-town Manhattan, while eating a pastry; and of course the scene kissing Varjak in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan. This movie shows more scenes of streets of Manhattan than any other movie I have seen. I highly recommend listening to the hit song of the American rock group Deep Blue Somthing's "Breakfast at Tiffany's," which adds to the enjoyment. Of course the music in the movie is strongly supported by Henry Mancini.
Many of us from the days of "A Team" know George Peppard as a tough talking Colonel Smith. It is a pleasant surprise for many of us to see this DVD and witness the tender side of young Peppard as Paul Varjak. Paul is strong, yet remains as an acquaintance of Holly but gradually he sees the feminine side of Holly, who is vulnerable, yet romantic in her heart. Blake Edwards indicated at one stage that he might not have cast Peppard if he were to do this all over again. We are unsure if there was a problem in their working relationship or Edwards was unhappy with his casting. I for one who was most disappointed to learn that Peppard was not nominated for academy award for his role in this movie. Buddy Ebsen and Mickey Rooney have limited role; yet they delight the audience with their talents and craftsmanship.
Crossing Moon River, in style.......2006-07-04
Yesterday I had a sudden craving for a classic movie. I didn't know where the urge came from, or how long it would last, so I figured that I should choose a very special movie just in case it vanished as quickly as it came. Fortunately for me, I chose Breakfast at Tiffany's, and now I think I'll go hunting for more of the same.
In a nutshell, Holly Golightly (a radiant Audrey Hepburn) is an unconventional young woman who lives life on the edge on Manhattan's Upper East Side. She's very impulsive and money-oriented, and spends her evenings flirting with older male acquaintances upon whose generosity she survives and thrives. Her favorite place in the world is Tiffany's, the famous jewellery store that calms her down on "mean red" days. Her erratic behavior irritates her upstairs neighbor, an unfortunately cast Mickey Rooney, who's as Japanese as American Pie, and quite offensive as a stereotype. She's also friendly with an imprisoned mob boss named Sally Tomato whom she visits weekly and talks about the weather.
When a struggling writer (George Peppard) moves into the building, she instantly recognizes him as a kindred spirit, especially when she learns that he also accepts money from the opposite sex for services rendered. Finding in him a sympathetic ear, a sounding board and willing accomplice all in one, the two become friends through good times and bad, even when her husband Doc Golightly (Buddy Ebsen) shows up with an ultimatum of his own. Male friends come and go, and bad luck seems to follow her around, but Holly bears it all in style with a gorgeous wardrobe, an unsinkable attitude, a long cigarette holder and plenty of booze for back-up.
A classic movie deserves an award winning soundtrack, and this movie has one mega-famous signature song. Audrey Hepburn may not have the best singing voice on the world, but when she sings Henry Mancini's "Moon River" you'll find yourself singing along too.
Like Tiffany's, this movie is another sure-fire cure for the mean reds.
Amanda Richards
Amazon.co.uk Review
No film better utilises Audrey Hepburn's flighty charm and svelte beauty than this romantic adaptation of Truman Capote's novella. Hepburn's urban sophisticate Holly Golightly, an enchanting neurotic living off the gifts of gentlemen, is a bewitching figure in designer dresses and costume jewellery. George Peppard is her upstairs neighbour, a struggling writer and "kept" man financed by a steely older woman (Patricia Neal). His growing friendship with the lonely Holly soon turns to love and threatens the delicate balance of both of their compromised lives. Taking liberties with Capote's bittersweet story, director Blake Edwards and screenwriter George Axelrod turn New York into a city of lovers and create a poignant portrait of Holly, a frustrated romantic with a secret past and a hidden vulnerability. Composer Henry Mancini earned Oscars for the hit song "Moon River" and his tastefully romantic score. The only sour note in the whole film is Mickey Rooney's demeaning performance as the apartment's Japanese manager, an offensively overdone stereotype even in 1961. The rest of the film has weathered the decades well. Edwards's elegant yet light touch, Axelrod's generous screenplay and Hepburn's mix of knowing experience and naivety combine to create one of the great screen romances and a refined slice of high-society bohemian chic. --Sean Axmaker
Customer Reviews:
Must See film.......2007-10-05
This Blake Edward adaptation of Truman Capote's classic novella is ideally cast. New York playgirl Holly Golightly, played by Audrey Hepburn, puzzles a writer who moves into her building, played by George Peppard.
Holly has her life planned out. She plans to marry a rich man who is under 50 years of age. Her and the writer, Paul Harvak, start off being friends. And over the course of the movie, he falls in love with her. She of course has planned to run off and marry a man of means. Their relationship bounces back and forth, but is always leading to what we hope will be the inevitable ending. Here we have a romantic movie that moves from the cute to sweet.
This movie is extremely well cast, directed and scored. A most memorable song is Henry Mancini's "Moon River". Which is just perfect for this movie. And even until this day, there is not an actress that could possibly replace Audrey Hepburn. She is this movie, and it has to be her most stellar performance of all time. George Peppard is also very good as well. Worth watching.
Beloved but gooey.......2007-08-21
I'll admit I'm in the minority about Breakfast at Tiffany's. The movie just doesn't touch me. Here are some things that put me off.
--The whole movie seems to me to be self consciously fey.
--George Peppard has never seemed to me to be credible as the leading man. There is always something smart alecky and wooden (at the same time) about the guy.
--Audrey Hepburn is such a lady, carefully groomed and dressed, always gracious. She's a young grande dame. I have liked her best in the two bookends of her career, Roman Holiday and Robin and Marian. I probably would have a different view if she'd made the movie earlier. In Roman Holiday she really was young, and came across as eager for new things. Maybe that was just good acting, but by the time she made Breakfast, eight or nine years had passed. She's become the great actress playing kooky. For me, it shows.
--Micky Rooney and his character are both awful. If he'd played it in blackface he'd have been a great Stepin Fetchit.
However, Mancini captures the moment with his Moon River theme. I think one of the things that makes the theme work is Johnny Mercer's lyrics. The guy was extraordinary in everything he wrote. "...my huckleberry friend..." is a phrase of genius...although I'm not sure what a huckleberry friend is.
Disappointing period piece.......2007-08-21
I do acknowledge that this is rated as a classic, but after watching it I was really at a loss to explain why.. It manages to cram about half-an-hours worthwhile plot into its 109 minutes. Apart from that it's just largely unfunny froth, with a terribly cod Japanese impression from Mickey Rooney as the nadir of the non-humour.
The remainder is just glib "cool and trendy" patter, interspersed with early 60's party shots, documenting the parties we are supposed to wish we'd gone to...
It manages one touching moment at the finish, when Audrey Hepburn finds her cat which she has booted out of the car five minutes earlier - the rest is trite, vapid and forgettable.
After about an hour I was yawning, and that is about the only final summary I can give this film.
Meet Audrey Hepburn for Breakfast at Tiffany's.......2007-06-08
A beautiful debonair named Holly Golightly leaves her husband and moves into Manhattan with an ambition to meet a wealthy man, marry him, and then name her pet cat, and enjoy the rest of her life. This sounds like an ambition of a typical young woman, but when Holly meets a young writer named Paul Varjak; there is no love at first; but that changes gradually and love blossoms. One would like to think this is a love story, but not quite, the author is not Erich Segal. Truman Capote wrote this short novel about a woman who is in pursuit of a high society life and never finds one; and she never grows up. The movie deviates from Capote's book in several areas. Capote wrote this book with Marilyn Monroe on his mind for the lead role, but the role went to Audrey Hepburn; director Blake Edwards couldn't have made a better choice. This is one of the classic movies of Hepburn in which every member of the audience becomes enchanted and captivated with the beauty and passion of Holly played by Hepburn. This wisp-thin actress, carrying a long cigarette holder is one of the iconic images of American Cinema.
In the final part of the movie when Holly was dumped by her rich Brazilian fiancée, her friend Paul Varjak helps her recollect; and in a reconciliatory term she changes her heart only to fall in love with Varjak. This scene was shot in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan that adds a touch of pure romance and a grand finale to the endless pursuit of Holly in search of a rich man. Everyone who loves happy ending would love this; but no one was unhappy than Capote who was upset for the change; he wanted Holly to remain as a mysterious woman who never learns and never gives up her dream. My favorite part of the movie is the film's on-location opening sequence, in which Holly gazes into a Tiffany's display window after getting out from a cab in mid-town Manhattan, while eating a pastry; and of course the scene kissing Varjak in the middle of pouring rain in Manhattan. This movie shows more scenes of streets of Manhattan than any other movie I have seen. I highly recommend listening to the hit song of the American rock group Deep Blue Somthing's "Breakfast at Tiffany's," which adds to the enjoyment. Of course the music in the movie is strongly supported by Henry Mancini.
Many of us from the days of "A Team" know George Peppard as a tough talking Colonel Smith. It is a pleasant surprise for many of us to see this DVD and witness the tender side of young Peppard as Paul Varjak. Paul is strong, yet remains as an acquaintance of Holly but gradually he sees the feminine side of Holly, who is vulnerable, yet romantic in her heart. Blake Edwards indicated at one stage that he might not have cast Peppard if he were to do this all over again. We are unsure if there was a problem in their working relationship or Edwards was unhappy with his casting. I for one who was most disappointed to learn that Peppard was not nominated for academy award for his role in this movie. Buddy Ebsen and Mickey Rooney have limited role; yet they delight the audience with their talents and craftsmanship.
Crossing Moon River, in style.......2006-07-04
Yesterday I had a sudden craving for a classic movie. I didn't know where the urge came from, or how long it would last, so I figured that I should choose a very special movie just in case it vanished as quickly as it came. Fortunately for me, I chose Breakfast at Tiffany's, and now I think I'll go hunting for more of the same.
In a nutshell, Holly Golightly (a radiant Audrey Hepburn) is an unconventional young woman who lives life on the edge on Manhattan's Upper East Side. She's very impulsive and money-oriented, and spends her evenings flirting with older male acquaintances upon whose generosity she survives and thrives. Her favorite place in the world is Tiffany's, the famous jewellery store that calms her down on "mean red" days. Her erratic behavior irritates her upstairs neighbor, an unfortunately cast Mickey Rooney, who's as Japanese as American Pie, and quite offensive as a stereotype. She's also friendly with an imprisoned mob boss named Sally Tomato whom she visits weekly and talks about the weather.
When a struggling writer (George Peppard) moves into the building, she instantly recognizes him as a kindred spirit, especially when she learns that he also accepts money from the opposite sex for services rendered. Finding in him a sympathetic ear, a sounding board and willing accomplice all in one, the two become friends through good times and bad, even when her husband Doc Golightly (Buddy Ebsen) shows up with an ultimatum of his own. Male friends come and go, and bad luck seems to follow her around, but Holly bears it all in style with a gorgeous wardrobe, an unsinkable attitude, a long cigarette holder and plenty of booze for back-up.
A classic movie deserves an award winning soundtrack, and this movie has one mega-famous signature song. Audrey Hepburn may not have the best singing voice on the world, but when she sings Henry Mancini's "Moon River" you'll find yourself singing along too.
Like Tiffany's, this movie is another sure-fire cure for the mean reds.
Amanda Richards
DVD:
- Brighton Rock [1947]
- Camelot [1967]
- Carry On Doctor [1967]
- Charlie Chaplin Complete Box Set [1921]
- Cottage To Let [1941]
- Crossfire [1947]
- Dead Of Night [1945]
- Doctor Who - The Dalek Invasion Of Earth [1963]
- Doctor Who - The Visitation [1963]
- Dracula [1931]
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