description Breakfast at Tiffany's Overview
Truman Capote's novella introduces Holly Golightly, a charming and elusive young woman navigating the complexities of New York City's high society. The story, told through the eyes of an unnamed narrator, offers a glimpse into the glamorous yet superficial world of Manhattan in the 1950s. Capotes prose is witty and evocative, capturing the citys energy and the protagonists yearning for belonging. While the film adaptation is iconic, the book provides a deeper understanding of Hollys character and motivations.
Published in 1958.
info Breakfast at Tiffany's Specifications
| Genre | Romantic Comedy-Drama |
| Rated | Not Rated (pre-MPAA system) |
| Title | Breakfast at Tiffany's |
| Studio | Paramount Pictures |
| Runtime | 115 minutes |
| Director | Blake Edwards |
| Box Office | $14.6 million (original release) |
| Lead Actors | Audrey Hepburn, George Peppard |
| Release Year | 1961 |
| Academy Awards | 2 wins (Best Original Song, Best Original Score) |
| Cinematography | Franz F. Plager |
| Original Source | Truman Capote novella (1958) |
balance Breakfast at Tiffany's Pros & Cons
- Audrey Hepburn delivers an iconic, career-defining performance as Holly Golightly that remains influential to this day
- The film features the Academy Award-winning theme song 'Moon River', which became a cultural phenomenon and jazz standard
- Elegant costume design by Hubert de Givenchy, particularly the legendary black evening gown, set enduring fashion trends
- Blake Edwards' direction masterfully balances romance, comedy, and drama while capturing the glamour of 1950s Manhattan
- Strong supporting cast including George Peppard provides solid chemistry and grounding for the whimsical central character
- The screenplay successfully adapts Capote's novella while adding entertaining cinematic elements that work as a period piece
- The film significantly alters the original novella's ending, removing much of its bittersweet and melancholic tone
- Some racial and social commentary present in Capote's source material is notably absent or softened in the adaptation
- The romantic chemistry between Hepburn and Peppard, while adequate, lacks the passionate intensity some modern viewers might expect
- The portrayal of Holly Golightly sanitizes darker aspects of the character found in the original novella, including her past
- The film has not aged perfectly in terms of certain cultural references and period-specific humor
help Breakfast at Tiffany's FAQ
Is 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' based on a true story?
No, the film is adapted from Truman Capote's 1958 novella of the same name. While Capote drew inspiration from real people and experiences in New York society, the story and characters are fictional works of fiction.
Where was 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' filmed?
The film was primarily shot on location in New York City, including famous landmarks like Tiffany & Co. and various Manhattan streets, with additional filming taking place at Paramount Studios in Hollywood for interior sets.
Did Audrey Hepburn sing in the movie?
No, Audrey Hepburn was dubbed by professional singer Marni Nixon for 'Moon River' and the 'I' number. While Hepburn was a talented actress, singing was not her strength, so Paramount used Nixon for her vocal performances.
How much is the famous black dress worth today?
The iconic black Givenchy dress worn by Audrey Hepburn in the opening scenes has never been sold at auction, but similar vintage Givenchy pieces have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars. The dress is considered priceless due to its cultural significance.
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Classic film enthusiasts, romance movie fans, and those interested in iconic Hollywood cinema and enduring fashion moments.
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What are the key specifications of Breakfast at Tiffany's?
- Genre: Romantic Comedy-Drama
- Rated: Not Rated (pre-MPAA system)
- Title: Breakfast at Tiffany's
- Studio: Paramount Pictures
- Runtime: 115 minutes
- Director: Blake Edwards
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