"Fiction or non-fiction?"
Regina Lampert (Hepburn) is planning to divorce her wealth husband, Charlie, who keeps too many secrets. When she returns from vacation, Charlie and all their possessions are gone. The police inform her that Charlie was killed, after selling their possessions and trying to leave the country.
After the funeral, Regina is contacted by Mr. Bartholomew (Matthau) from the CIA. He explains that Charlie was wanted by the government for a large sum of money he stole, which is the reason he was killed. However, Regina is in danger. Charlie had three accomplices who want their share of the money: Scobie (Kennedy), Tex (Coburn), and Gideon (Glass). With the help of Peter Joshua (Grant), the charming stranger she met while on vacation, can Regina find the money first?
A funny, romantic, thriller with an all-star cast. Audrey Hepburn is elegant and stunning in an array of Givenchy clothing. Cary Grant is a charismatic leading man (as always), playing serious and goofy simultaneously. Despite the 30+ year age difference, they have sizzling chemistry, with Hepburn as the pursuer. They are chased by George Kennedy and James Coburn, two actors best known for playing "tough" characters. Kennedy is imposing, while Tex is conniving.
The script is funny, with witty dialogue and goofy moments / scenes (Grant's shower while wearing his suit). But there are also serious moments, hyping the drama of the moment. In addition, Director Stanley Donen, makes the most of his gorgeous Parisian setting, almost making Paris another character in the film.
An excellent film for Grant and Hepburn fans, and good for any occasion / mood... come for the spectacular cast at the top of their game, stay for the story.
Charade (1963) 113 minutes
Director: Stanley Donen
Starring: Cary Grant as Peter Joshua
Audrey Hepburn as Regina Lampert
Walter Matthau as Hamilton Bartholomew
James Coburn as Tex Panthollow
George Kennedy as Herman Scobie
Ned Glass as Leopold W. Gideon
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