Royalty, forbidden romance, and the charm and romance of Rome all rolled up in a film that is funny and tender and spectacularly acted Audrey Hepburn – what more could one possibly ask for? Roman Holiday is a light-hearted, gem of a romantic comedy. The story follows a stifled and somewhat bored princess who escapes her gilded cage for a care-free day in Rome. She is guided in her adventures by Joe Bradely (Gregory Peck), a scheming newspaper reporter looking for the scoop of a lifetime, and his photographer friend, Irving.

The film is first and foremost simply a delight to watch. The chemistry between Princess Ann and Joe sparkles. The wild plot certainly stretches credulity, but in the light of an excellent script and marvellous acting it doesn’t much matter. It is also a gorgeous portrayal of Rome, filming all the major attractions from the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain, to the Colosseum and the Vatican, ending with Joe and Ann’s final adventure on the river near San Domiano’s. (more…)