This week's must see movie is 1953 romantic comedy Roman Holiday, the film that shot unknown English actress Audrey Hepburn into the spotlight.
Hepburn won an Oscar for her portrayal of a modern-day princess rebelling against her royal obligations who explores Rome on her own.
Anne is frustrated by her lack of connection to the real world, she slips away from her protective handlers and travels through the city incognito.
She meets Gregory Peck, an American newspaperman who, seeking an exclusive story, pretends ignorance of her true identity. Offering to giver her a guided tour of Rome as he photographer friend Irving follows them to try and sneak a picture.
But his plan falters as they rapidly fall in love...
Roman Holiday really is a classic in the genre of the romantic comedy as Peck and Hepburn complement each other beautifully; the character of Anne is naive and has been protected her whole life in contrast to Peck's worldly American.
Despite Gregory Peck being a major star at the time is was Hepburn that stole the film. Peck's contract gave him solo star billing, with the name of then-unknown Hepburn featured much smaller in the credits. Half-way through the filming, he requested that the producer give her equal billing an almost unheard-of gesture in Hollywood.
The film was shot on location in Rome which was a real plus point for the picture as the city play an integral role in the movie becoming a character in it's own right, as well as producing some visually stunning images.
A string of awards came the young actresses way as she picked up the Best Actress Oscar for her role as well as the Bafta and the Golden Globe, the film was also nominated for Best Picture.
Roman Holiday has stood the test of time and is still a favourite amongst fans of this genre while it may not be Hepburn's most well known role, paling beside Breakfast at Tiffany's and My Fair Lady, this movie of wish fulfillment and classic romance is a perfect example of what Hollywood specialised in during this era.
With one of the most moving and memorable endings you will ever see in a rom com this is an absolute most for all fans of this genre and these two fine actors who really brought the script to life.
FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw
Tagged in Audrey Hepburn