Today’s quick review: Sabrina. Returning from Paris with newfound class, Sabrina (Audrey Hepburn), the daughter of the chauffeur at the wealthy Larrabee household, catches the eye of David (William Holden), the family’s flirtatious younger son. But their relationship threatens David’s engagement to an heiress, prompting Linus (Humphrey Bogart), David’s businesslike brother, to take care of the problem by striking up a romance of his own with Sabrina.
Sabrina is a clasic romantic comedy that charts an unlikely romance between a servant’s daughter and a wealthy playboy. Sabrina features a strong cast, nuanced characters, and a subtle sense of humor. The film’s calm tone and unhurried delivery may bore those used to modern cinema. But fans of classic-style movies will enjoy Sabrina for its sharp script and well-drawn characters.
The love triangle at the heart of the movie is unbalanced in intriguing ways. Sabrina’s girlish infatuation with David takes on a new dimension when he finally returns her affection. For his part, David’s abrupt acknowledgement of her existence has every indication of being another impulsive fling. And throughout it all, Linus remains a calculating, manipulative figure whose relationship with Sabrina may yet not be entirely fake.
Sabrina has a handful of minor flaws, although many of them come down to taste. The film’s comedy is pervasive for those who look for it, but viewers only paying partial attention will miss its veiled barbs and little ironies. Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart have a shade less chemistry than they might have. Though the story hits many of the expected romantic beats, it’s a touch more cerebral and a touch less emotional than the usual romance.
Give Sabrina a watch if you are a classics fan looking for something light, well-crafted, and satisfying. Sabrina offers no high drama or hysterics, but rather a thoughtful, amusing look at high society and love. Skip it if you are looking for a more blatant comedy or a modern romance. For an Audrey Hepburn romantic comedy with a strong lead couple and a more active plot, check out Charade.
7.7 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 for good acting, an interesting plot, and cleverly handled comedy and romance.