Sabrina (1954) - Film Review
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Sabrina (1954) is a romantic comedy directed by Billy Wilder, featuring an iconic love triangle involving Audrey Hepburn, Humphrey Bogart, and William Holden. The movie is based on the play
Sabrina Fair by Samuel A. Taylor and is celebrated for its blend of romance, comedy, and class commentary. Set in New York's elite society, the story revolves around Sabrina Fairchild (Hepburn), the daughter of a wealthy family's chauffeur, and her relationships with two very different brothers, Linus (Bogart) and David Larrabee (Holden).
Sabrina begins the film as a naïve young woman, infatuated with the charming playboy David Larrabee, the younger son of the wealthy Larrabee family. After a transformative two-year culinary school experience in Paris, Sabrina returns home elegant and confident. David, who previously paid her little attention, is suddenly captivated by her new sophistication. However, David is already engaged to Elizabeth Tyson (Martha Hyer), and the engagement is crucial to a business merger for the Larrabee family.
Linus Larrabee, the pragmatic older brother, steps in to protect the family’s business interests by distracting Sabrina. Initially indifferent to romance, Linus's goal is to keep Sabrina away from David. Yet, as Linus and Sabrina spend more time together, genuine affection blossoms between them. Linus’s cold exterior melts, revealing the romantic side of a man once thought incapable of love. The film culminates in a touching moment where Linus, instead of manipulating Sabrina, chooses love, and they set off to Paris together.
One of the core themes in
Sabrina is class difference. Sabrina's father works as the Larrabee family's chauffeur, placing her on the periphery of their luxurious world. This social gap emphasizes Sabrina’s emotional journey, as she initially idolizes the wealthy David, only to discover that her ideal man is not who she imagined. The film portrays Sabrina’s evolution from a starry-eyed girl to a self-assured woman, a transformation that parallels her changing romantic focus—from the shallow David to the more complex Linus.
The contrasting personalities of the two brothers-David’s charm and irresponsibility versus Linus’s seriousness-enhance the romantic tension. David represents fleeting attraction, while Linus embodies mature love. Audrey Hepburn’s portrayal of Sabrina balances innocence with growing confidence, which was pivotal in making the character relatable to audiences. Bogart’s turn as Linus showcases a rare vulnerability, while Holden’s portrayal of David adds levity and comedic flair to the narrative.
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The film’s success lies not only in its narrative but also in its stellar performances and visual appeal. Audrey Hepburn’s wardrobe, supervised by Edith Head with inspiration from Hubert de Givenchy, became iconic, contributing to the actress’s enduring fashion legacy. Hepburn’s outfits, including the famous black cocktail dress, embody Sabrina’s transformation and elegance, cementing her status as a fashion icon.
The casting of Bogart as Linus was unconventional, as he was known for playing tough, brooding characters rather than romantic leads. His performance surprised audiences by bringing depth to Linus’s reserved demeanour. Interestingly, the production was not without tension—Bogart reportedly clashed with Holden and Wilder, criticizing Hepburn’s acting experience. Nevertheless, these challenges did not detract from the film’s success, and the chemistry between the three leads remains captivating.
Sabrina was widely acclaimed upon its release. Critics praised the film for its witty dialogue, emotional depth, and charming performances. Bosley Crowther of The New York Times called it
the most delightful comedy-romance in years. Hepburn’s performance earned her an Oscar nomination, and the film also received nominations for Best Director, Best Cinematography, and Best Screenplay. Edith Head won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design, though Givenchy’s influence remains a point of debate.
The film has enjoyed enduring popularity, frequently cited as one of the best romantic comedies of all time. It has also been noted for its influence on later romantic comedies, especially in how it portrays personal growth and the tension between love and societal expectations.
While beloved,
Sabrina has not escaped modern scrutiny. Some critics highlight the film's problematic elements, particularly the subtle manipulation involved in Linus’s initial pursuit of Sabrina. This aspect reflects a recurring trope in romantic comedies, where deception is used as a plot device to bring characters together. However, the film also allows Sabrina significant agency in choosing her path, making the resolution more palatable for contemporary viewers.
Sabrina is a timeless classic that seamlessly blends romance, humour, and social commentary. Its success lies in the perfect combination of Hepburn’s magnetic charm, Bogart’s surprising vulnerability, and Wilder’s deft direction. Beyond its romantic entanglements, the film offers insight into personal growth, the illusions of wealth and status, and the complexities of love. More than half a century later,
Sabrina continues to enchant audiences, reaffirming its place among the great romantic comedies of cinema history.
For those interested in classic Hollywood films or romantic comedies,
Sabrina remains essential viewing, available to stream on Paramount+ and other platforms. Its blend of elegance, humour, and emotional depth ensures its lasting appeal in cinema history.
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#rom_com 301254 - 2025-01-16 01:52:19