Audrey Hepburn, a name synonymous with elegance, grace, and cinematic brilliance, graced the silver screen in a total of 31 feature films. While her impact extends far beyond sheer numbers, understanding the scope of her cinematic contributions is crucial to appreciating her enduring legacy.
A Career Defined by Quality, Not Quantity
Audrey Hepburn’s film career, though not as prolific as some of her contemporaries, is distinguished by the remarkable quality of her roles and the indelible mark she left on each character. Her performances were captivating, often defining the archetype of the sophisticated yet vulnerable woman. She chose her projects carefully, focusing on stories and roles that resonated with her and showcased her unique talents. This selectivity contributes to the enduring appeal of her filmography.
A Chronological Journey Through Her Film Career
To truly understand the breadth of Audrey Hepburn’s work, it’s beneficial to consider her films chronologically, highlighting the evolution of her acting style and the diverse characters she portrayed. Her career began with small roles in British films before she achieved international stardom.
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Early Roles and Breakthrough: Hepburn’s early work included uncredited appearances and minor roles in films like One Wild Oat (1951) and Young Wives’ Tale (1951). Her breakout role came with Roman Holiday (1953), for which she won the Academy Award for Best Actress.
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The Golden Age: The 1950s and 1960s marked Hepburn’s golden age, with iconic films like Sabrina (1954), Funny Face (1957), Love in the Afternoon (1957), The Nun’s Story (1959), Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961), Charade (1963), and My Fair Lady (1964). These films cemented her status as a global icon.
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Later Career and Final Performances: While less frequent, Hepburn continued to act in films throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Notable later works include Robin and Marian (1976) and her final film appearance in Always (1989), directed by Steven Spielberg. This marked a poignant end to a magnificent cinematic journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Audrey Hepburn’s Movies
The following FAQs offer deeper insights into specific aspects of Audrey Hepburn’s filmography, clarifying common questions and expanding on her career’s key elements.
How many times was Audrey Hepburn nominated for an Oscar?
Audrey Hepburn received five nominations for the Academy Award for Best Actress. She won once, for her performance in Roman Holiday (1953). Her other nominations were for Sabrina (1954), The Nun’s Story (1959), Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961), and Wait Until Dark (1967).
What was Audrey Hepburn’s first film role?
While she had uncredited roles before, Audrey Hepburn’s first credited film role was in the 1951 British film One Wild Oat. She played a hotel receptionist.
What is considered Audrey Hepburn’s most iconic movie?
While subjective, Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961) is often considered Audrey Hepburn’s most iconic movie. Her portrayal of Holly Golightly is instantly recognizable and has had a lasting impact on fashion and popular culture. The film itself is highly influential and frequently referenced.
Which Audrey Hepburn movie was based on a Broadway musical?
My Fair Lady (1964) was based on the successful Broadway musical of the same name, which itself was adapted from George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion. While Hepburn’s singing voice was dubbed in the film, her performance as Eliza Doolittle remains one of her most memorable.
Did Audrey Hepburn ever act in a Western film?
No, Audrey Hepburn never starred in a traditional Western film. While The Unforgiven (1960) is set in the American West, it is more accurately categorized as a drama with Western elements, focusing on themes of racial prejudice and social tension.
In which movie did Audrey Hepburn play a blind woman?
Audrey Hepburn played a blind woman named Susy Hendrix in the thriller Wait Until Dark (1967). Her performance in this film, where she battles a group of criminals who invade her apartment, earned her an Academy Award nomination.
What was the last movie Audrey Hepburn ever made?
Audrey Hepburn’s last film role was in Steven Spielberg’s Always (1989). She played the angel Hap, marking a gentle and poignant conclusion to her illustrious film career.
How many films did Audrey Hepburn make with Gregory Peck?
Audrey Hepburn starred alongside Gregory Peck in one film: Roman Holiday (1953). This film launched her to international stardom and cemented their place as a beloved on-screen duo.
Did Audrey Hepburn direct any movies?
No, Audrey Hepburn never directed any movies. Her contributions were primarily as an actress, although she was also involved in philanthropic work and served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
Which of Audrey Hepburn’s movies was a remake of an earlier film?
Sabrina (1954), starring Audrey Hepburn, Humphrey Bogart, and William Holden, was a remake of the 1938 film of the same name, which starred Audrey Hepburn’s namesake, Audrey (Claire) Trevor.
What is Audrey Hepburn’s highest-grossing film, adjusted for inflation?
While difficult to pinpoint precisely without access to proprietary data, My Fair Lady (1964) is generally considered to be Audrey Hepburn’s highest-grossing film when adjusted for inflation. Its box office success was immense, and it remains a beloved classic.
Are there any documentaries about Audrey Hepburn’s life and career?
Yes, there are several documentaries about Audrey Hepburn. A notable example is Audrey (2020), which explores her life beyond the screen, including her childhood, her work with UNICEF, and her personal struggles. These documentaries offer valuable insights into the life and legacy of this iconic actress.
Audrey Hepburn’s Enduring Legacy
While the number of films Audrey Hepburn made is finite, her impact on cinema and popular culture is immeasurable. Her style, grace, and talent continue to inspire generations of actors and moviegoers. Her films are not just entertainment; they are works of art that capture the essence of a timeless icon. Her commitment to humanitarian work also solidifies her position as not only a brilliant actress but also a compassionate human being. Her legacy remains a testament to the power of talent, dedication, and kindness. The 31 films she starred in serve as a magnificent testament to her incredible influence.