Funny Face

It’s always delightful to watch an ‘oldie’! Actors expressed themselves differently then; and although some of the stories weren’t very multi-faceted or thought-provoking; these filmmakers made sure that their story was carefully executed and extremely enchanting. From wardrobe to singing, dancing and everything in between the filmmaker’s job was to make the audience feel something special by the end of it!

1957’s Musical/Comedy/Romance ‘Funny Face’ was indeed a light and airy tale from intellect and intelligence to glamour and romance sprinkled with exquisite French landscapes and architecture and catchy tunes. Written by Leonard Gershe and directed by Stanley Donen, they brought together a star cast of elegant Belgium time-less beauty and actress Audrey Hepburn starred alongside American multi-talented Fred Astaire and delightful and graceful American Kay Thompson. Viewers were engaged by the charming story, precious songs and adorable chemistry and reactions by the main characters.

This film didn’t bring so many laughs in my opinion but instead tremendous sentiment and the lesson of letting go and following the flow. Having a reluctant and unkind attitude about things in the beginning doesn’t necessarily help when allowing yourself to be a part of the journey although unknown may bring you to all you ever dreamed of and more! :)

How to be Lovely

**Few ladies left in this world -- but enjoy the lyrics, singing and dancing from these 'ladies' Audrey Hepburn and Kay Thompson from the beloved film 'Funny Face' in 1957! :))

Charade

When you’re obsessed with something; you’re bound to stir up reminders and in my case; every film I watch, I’m bound to have connections with France! J If you love life; then you’ll love France! J

Oscar nominated 1963 film ‘Charade’ was set in none other than the charming and romantic city of Paris. Written by Peter Stone and directed by Stanley Donen this film not only had lovely cinematic backdrops but also English Cary Grant and Belgium-beauty Audrey Hepburn. Their chemistry was similar to an old married couple – plenty of ‘spit-fire’ and plenty of love! Wonderful story and a scream of a plot unfold in the cleverest of ways. It’s always interesting to see similarities within film styles and influences and being an avid follower of French New-Wave Film; one can clearly see a classic ‘puppet scene’ re-enacted from the French Film ‘ The 400 Blows’ by François Truffaut.

You’ll laugh, you’ll coo and your eyes will grow in thrilling suspense. The audience can assume nothing except the utter danger Mrs. Lambert is in. Is she really, “An agent” or “A Spy”, or simply the unsuspecting newly widow searching for the money her husband had stolen?

“Oh you should see your face!”

“What’s the matter with it?”

“It’s lovely…”

Released on the 5^th of December 1963, only 49 years to the day today; and still possessing award-winning and riveting appeal. J