This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 180! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.
Hi friends!
Just finished watching the delightful 1963 film “Charade,” and let me tell you, it was an absolute blast! Think Audrey Hepburn’s chic style mixed with Cary Grant’s debonair charm, all set against the romantic backdrop of Paris. Oh, and throw in a dash of murder, mystery, hilarious antics — and enough plot twists to keep you on your toes. Seriously, you never know what’s coming next!
Alright, so the story kicks off with Audrey Hepburn’s character, Regina “Reggie” Lampert, wanting to divorce her husband. Next thing she knows, she’s wrapped up in this whirlwind mystery after finding out her husband has been murdered. Poor Reggie is just out of sorts, you know? And here’s where it gets juicy: she learns that her late hubby swiped a fortune during WWII and now some shady characters are on her tail, thinking she knows where the loot is stashed.
Enter Cary Grant as the charming yet mysterious Peter Joshua, who pops into Reggie’s life and offers to help her out. I mean, Cary Grant in his suave glory—what’s not to love, right? But, as they dive deeper into the chaos, Peter’s story starts changing. Like, who is this guy? Every time you think you’ve got him figured out, bam, another curveball.
Reggie, understandably wary but also undeniably drawn to Peter’s charisma, is swept along on a whirlwind adventure. They become entangled with a motley crew of bad guys after the missing loot – a bunch of World War II buddies with their eyes on a quarter-of-a-million-dollar fortune.
The chemistry between Hepburn and Grant is off the charts. They’re like, tossing witty banter back and forth, making you smirk and chuckle at their antics. Hepburn brings this light, elegant vibe, while Grant is all smooth talk and clever lines. It’s just delightful to watch.
The supporting cast is just as fantastic. James Coburn, George Kennedy, and Walter Matthau add layers of intrigue and humor as the trio of crooks and a CIA admin tangled up in this mess. Each character is so colorful, adding their own flavor of mischief and mayhem to the mix.
Visually, the movie is a treat. Paris serves as the backdrop, and it’s nothing short of stunning—the cafes, the markets, the River Seine. It’s like you’re taking a little European vacation but with a side of spy thriller. And those 1960s fashions that Hepburn rocks? Absolutely iconic. Audrey Hepburn is a style icon for a reason, and “Charade” is a masterclass in mid-century Parisian chic.
But it’s not just the look; the soundtrack is catchy too. It’s got this cool, jazzy vibe that fits perfectly with the film’s slick, stylish aesthetic. It complements the scenes so well, enhancing that sneaky, suspenseful feel.
The film is a beautiful blend of genres. It’s funny – like laugh-out-loud, popcorn-snorting funny. But there’s also a genuine suspense running throughout the movie. You never quite know who to trust, and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing — oh, and murder, too!
Honestly, watching “Charade” was a blast. It was like hopping on a thrilling chase through Paris with a dash of romance and a sprinkle of danger. If you’re into old-school films with snappy dialogue, chic 60s style, and a plot that keeps you guessing, this movie is definitely for you. I couldn’t recommend it more!
Catch ya tomorrow,
Roger