Funny Face

There are some movies that are simply timeless, and Funny Face is one of them. The classic musical comedy was released in 1957 and stars legends Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire, but even after all these years, it still manages to make audiences laugh and smile.

The film tells the story of Jo Stockton (Hepburn), a bookstore clerk in Greenwich Village who is discovered by fashion photographer Dick Avery (Astaire) and quickly finds herself swept up into the glamorous world of haute couture. Along the way, she becomes the muse of a famous fashion designer (based on real-life fashion innovator, Diana Vreeland), falls in love with Dick, and learns a few valuable lessons about herself and the world around her.

But what really makes Funny Face stand out are the hilarious and charming musical numbers. From the energetic and playful “Think Pink!” routine that kicks off the film, to the soulful and romantic “He Loves and She Loves,” each song and dance sequence is a delight to watch.

Perhaps the most famous of these musical moments is the iconic “Bonjour Paris” number, in which Jo and Dick stroll through the city of lights, singing and dancing their way through famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Hepburn’s natural elegance and Astaire’s effortless grace are on full display, and the scene is a testament to the timeless allure of Paris.

But while Funny Face is certainly a lovely tribute to the beauty of fashion and the magic of Paris, it also has a subtle and endearing sense of humor that still resonates today. The characters are quirky and lovable, and there are countless moments of comic relief scattered throughout the film.

For example, there’s the unforgettable scene in which Dick teaches Jo how to “do a beatnik” – a hilarious parody of the then-popular beatnik subculture. Hepburn’s comically awkward movements and Astaire’s deadpan delivery make for a truly delightful moment.

Then there’s the tongue-in-cheek depiction of high fashion as a kind of absurd performance art, complete with bizarre poses and exaggerated facial expressions. The film pokes fun at the often-ridiculous world of high fashion, but it does so with affection and good humor.

Of course, Funny Face is not without its flaws. Some of the dated gender roles and treatment of race can be cringe-worthy by modern standards, and the plot can feel a bit thin at times. But overall, it’s a joyous and charming tribute to the power of fashion, love, and music.

It’s worth noting that Funny Face almost didn’t happen. Initially, the film was supposed to star Judy Garland and Gene Kelly, and was intended to be a much more serious drama. But after a series of setbacks and creative disagreements, the production was reinvented as a musical comedy with completely different leads.

Thankfully, Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire were more than up to the task. The two stars had never worked together before, but their chemistry is palpable onscreen. Hepburn, in particular, brings a unique charm and vulnerability to her performance that makes Jo a truly endearing character.

All in all, Funny Face is a classic Hollywood musical that holds up surprisingly well today. Its combination of romance, humor, and catchy tunes make it a perfect rainy day movie or even just a quick pick-me-up. And with its charming cast and stunning visuals, it’s no wonder it remains a beloved classic even after all these years.