This is the reason why you watch movies. This is why people feel so strongly about them, make them part of their lives, and love to talk about them. It reminds us of what is good about the movies and makes us long for a time when you can have this kind of talent, both in front of and behind the camera, make wonderful,touching, hilarious films.
"Sabrina" may not be the best film that Wilder, Bogart, Holden, or Hepburn made, but it came along at a time when all four of them were going through the best part of their careers.
Holden was not too far removed from winning the Oscar for "Stalag 17" and was about to enter a "golden" period, starting with "The Country Girl" and continuing on until "Bridge on the River Kwai. Bogart ( a last minute replacement for Cary Grant), had just completed "The Caine Mutiny". Hepburn had just won the Oscar for "Roman Holiday", and Wilder had "Stalag 17" and "Sunset Boulevard" completed, and would have a string of hits that started with "Sabrina" and continue on until "One, Two, Three" in 1961.
All of the stars were properly aligned for "Sabrina". Although I think Grant might have been better in the part, Bogart worked hard to be semi-tough and likable. I'll be honest and say I found it disturbing to see him try to win over Hepburn. His features were too worn and hard to be completely winning. He and Holden worked well together, which is amazing when you consider they couldn't stand each other off screen.
Hepburn, of course, is gorgeous. She's the perfect combination of charming, elegant, tom-boyishness, and beauty.
Wilder does it again with his screenplay and directing. First he assembles an excellent supporting cast, especially Walter Hampden and John Williams. Then he keeps the comedy coming and seldom lets up for us to catch our breath. His use of the camera is terrific too. I love the shot of Bogart at his desk in the distance, while the camera shoots through several doorways.
Top notch production, first rate cast and wonderful screenplay and directing add up to a classic every movie lover should own.
9 out of 10
