The legendary duo of Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire remains one of the most iconic pairings in the history of classic cinema. Both stars were celebrated for their elegance, charm, and unique talents, and their collaboration in the 1957 filmFunny Facebrought together two distinct worlds of artistry Hepburn’s ethereal grace and Astaire’s unmatched mastery of dance. This partnership created a memorable on-screen chemistry that still captivates audiences today. To understand the significance of Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire working together, we need to explore their individual legacies, the story ofFunny Face, and why this collaboration continues to resonate decades later.
The Background of Two Legends
Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire were already well-established figures in the entertainment industry before their paths crossed. Hepburn had taken Hollywood by storm with her breakout role inRoman Holiday(1953), winning an Academy Award for Best Actress. Known for her timeless beauty, refined acting, and humanitarian spirit, Hepburn became an icon of fashion and film during the 1950s and 1960s.
Audrey Hepburn’s Rise to Stardom
Born in 1929, Hepburn’s early life was marked by hardship during World War II, but her passion for ballet and the performing arts led her to the stage and eventually to the screen. By the time she starred inSabrina(1954) andWar and Peace(1956), Hepburn had established herself as a leading lady admired for her grace and sophistication. Her collaboration with Fred Astaire marked another milestone in her illustrious career.
Fred Astaire’s Legendary Career
Fred Astaire, born in 1899, was already a dance legend long beforeFunny Facewas made. Known for his impeccable technique, fluid movement, and charismatic performances, Astaire revolutionized dance in cinema. His partnerships with Ginger Rogers in the 1930s produced some of the most iconic dance sequences in film history. By the 1950s, Astaire was a veteran star, respected as one of the greatest performers of all time.
The Collaboration: Funny Face (1957)
The film that brought Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire together wasFunny Face, a romantic musical comedy directed by Stanley Donen. The movie combined the worlds of high fashion, photography, and dance, set against the stunning backdrop of Paris. Based loosely on a Broadway musical of the same name, the film showcased Hepburn’s elegance and Astaire’s effortless charm in a dazzling display of music, dance, and visual artistry.
The Storyline
Funny Facefollows the story of Jo Stockton (played by Audrey Hepburn), a shy bookstore clerk with intellectual ambitions who unexpectedly becomes a fashion model. She is discovered by fashion photographer Dick Avery (played by Fred Astaire), who convinces her to travel to Paris for a photoshoot. Amid glamorous fashion spreads and the romantic Parisian setting, a love story blossoms between Jo and Dick, despite their differences.
Memorable Musical Numbers
- S’Wonderful: A romantic duet between Hepburn and Astaire that remains a highlight of the film.
- Funny Face: The title song, performed by Astaire, celebrates Hepburn’s character in an endearing way.
- Bonjour, Paris!: A lively ensemble number that captures the excitement of being in the City of Light.
The On-Screen Chemistry
One of the most fascinating aspects ofFunny Faceis the dynamic between Hepburn and Astaire. While there was a notable age difference between the two (Astaire was nearly 30 years older than Hepburn), their charm and professionalism made the romance believable and enchanting. Hepburn’s elegance paired beautifully with Astaire’s sophistication, creating a relationship that was more about admiration and artistry than traditional romantic tropes.
Dance Sequences That Defined the Film
Although Hepburn was not a professional dancer like Astaire, her background in ballet gave her a natural grace that complemented his precise movements. Their dance scenes together, including the iconic sequence in the Paris café, showcased a blend of spontaneity and elegance that is rare in modern cinema. Astaire himself praised Hepburn for her ability to adapt to the choreography with such poise and charm.
The Fashion and Visual Appeal
Funny Faceis celebrated not only for its music and performances but also for its fashion. Audrey Hepburn worked closely with French designer Hubert de Givenchy, who created some of the film’s most stunning outfits. From the chic black turtleneck and cigarette pants to the extravagant red gown for the Louvre scene, Hepburn’s wardrobe became a defining element of her style legacy. Combined with Richard Avedon’s influence on the film’s photography-inspired aesthetic, the movie was a feast for the eyes.
The Parisian Backdrop
Shot on location in Paris, the film offered breathtaking visuals of iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Seine. This setting enhanced the romantic tone of the story and elevated the film’s cultural significance as a celebration of fashion, art, and love in one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
The Legacy of Their Collaboration
The partnership between Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire inFunny Facewas a cinematic milestone. While they only worked together on this one film, the impact of their collaboration endures in the world of classic Hollywood musicals. Their ability to blend dance, music, and fashion into a cohesive and enchanting story left an indelible mark on film history.
Cultural Influence
- The film reinforced Audrey Hepburn’s status as a fashion icon.
- Fred Astaire’s performance reaffirmed his legendary status even in his later career.
- Funny Faceinspired generations of filmmakers, designers, and dancers.
Why Fans Still Love Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire
Decades after its release,Funny Facecontinues to attract new audiences. The film’s charm lies in its combination of romance, elegance, and artistry, all embodied by Hepburn and Astaire. For fans of classic cinema, their partnership represents the golden era of Hollywood musicals a time when storytelling, music, and dance blended seamlessly.
Enduring Appeal
The magic of Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire lies in their timeless qualities: Hepburn’s grace and beauty, Astaire’s unmatched talent and charisma. Together, they created a cinematic experience that transcends generations, proving that true artistry never goes out of style.
The collaboration of Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire inFunny Faceremains a shining example of Hollywood’s golden age. From breathtaking fashion to mesmerizing dance numbers, the film offers everything that makes classic musicals so beloved. Their chemistry, elegance, and shared screen presence ensure that this pairing will always be remembered as one of the most iconic in cinematic history. For fans of film, fashion, and music, the names Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire will forever evoke images of sophistication, creativity, and enduring charm.