Cast
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Audrey Hepburn
as Holly Golightly
George Peppard
as Paul Varjak
Patricia Neal
as 2E Failenson
Buddy Ebsen
as Doc Golightly
Martin Balsam
as O.J. Berman
José Luis de Vilallonga
as José da Silva Pereira
John McGiver
as Tiffany's Salesman
Dorothy Whitney
as Mag Wildwood
Stanley Adams
as Rusty Trawler
Elvia Allman
as Librarian
Alan Reed
as Sally Tomato
Beverly Powers
as Nightclub Stripper
Claude Stroud
as Sid Arbuck
Mickey Rooney
as Mr. Yunioshi
Don Anderson
as Bartender (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Blake Edwards
Producer
- Martin Jurow
- Richard Shepherd
Reviews
Peter McGinn
I don’t know how I went this long without watching this movie, but I recently viewed it for the first time. It is fairly entertaining for the most part. Audrey Hepburn is magnetic and Patricia Neal just as good. I thought George Peppard could have injected more energy or emotion into his role. The rest of the cast is solid, especially the cat.
The plot seems rather daring for the time, though they are careful about talking around mature themes. I thought Mickey Rooney playing a Japanese character was in terrible taste, and apparently director Blake Edwards wished he could cast it over again. It wasn’t Rooney’s fault; it was a thankless role and comes across as racist with our modern sensibilities.
So I wasn’t dazzled by the story, but I found the final scene with the cat redeemed some of the flaws I noticed along the way.
Feb 7, 2021
CinemaSerf
Audrey Hepburn is at the top of her game as the dysfunctional socialite "Holly" who takes a bit of a shine to the rather staid "Paul" (George Peppard) who has moved into their apartment building. He is an artist in what can only be described a rut, and is readily, if a little timidly, subsumed into her wacky and lively world. She claims he reminds her of her brother, but of course time and events soon change that dynamic. Thing is, though, they both have some pretty hefty skeletons in their closets, and the challenge for them both will be to not let those spoil what could be a burgeoning romance! Aside from the legendary "Moon River" song, this is essentially just a quickly paced character study of two people with about as many complexities to their personalities as it is possible to have. The dialogue is often genuinely funny; the scenarios - though sometimes a little cringe-making - can't help but raise a smile as does the continuity provided by their constantly complaining upstairs neighbour. Time has not been especially kind to some of the stereotypes - not least Mickey Rooney's "Yunioshi" but taken in the context of the time, it is still entertaining, risqué even, and enjoyable to watch.
Jun 24, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Breakfast at Tiffany's examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Blake Edwards brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1961, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Breakfast at Tiffany's took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $2.5 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 115 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 143 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 225 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1961, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Breakfast at Tiffany's shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Before Sunset, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Breakfast at Tiffany's offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Dirty Dancing and Beverly Hills Cop II explore similar territory, Breakfast at Tiffany's stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 6, 1961
- Runtime: 1h 55m
- Budget: $2,500,000
- Revenue: $9,500,000
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