Myrilla Whitcomb

Written by Myrilla Whitcomb

Modified & Updated: 03 Mar 2024

Sherman Smith

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

45-facts-about-the-movie-breakfast-at-tiffanys
Source: Paramountplus.com

Breakfast at Tiffany’s is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of moviegoers for decades. Released in 1961, this film has become iconic for its charming story, memorable characters, and stunning visuals. Directed by Blake Edwards and based on the novel of the same name by Truman Capote, Breakfast at Tiffany’s follows the life of Holly Golightly, played by the enchanting Audrey Hepburn.

Set against the backdrop of New York City in the early 1960s, the movie takes us on a journey of love, friendship, and self-discovery. With its captivating screenplay and incredible performances, Breakfast at Tiffany’s continues to captivate audiences of all ages. In this article, we will delve into 45 fascinating facts about this beloved film, shedding light on its production, trivia, and behind-the-scenes secrets. So grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s explore the enchanting world of Breakfast at Tiffany’s!

Key Takeaways:

  • Audrey Hepburn’s portrayal of Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s solidified her as a style icon and propelled her career to new heights, inspiring fashion trends and timeless symbols of style.
  • The film’s theme song, “Moon River,” became a massive hit and went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song, adding depth to the characters’ experiences and resonating with audiences around the world.
Table of Contents

Audrey Hepburn’s Iconic Role

One of the most famous and beloved movies of all time, Breakfast at Tiffany’s stars Audrey Hepburn in the iconic role of Holly Golightly.

Truman Capote’s Novel

The movie is based on Truman Capote’s novella of the same name, which was published in 1958.

A Stylish New York Setting

Set in New York City, the film showcases the city’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning landmarks, including the iconic Tiffany & Co. jewelry store.

Paul Varjak as Holly’s Love Interest

George Peppard stars as Paul Varjak, the struggling writer who becomes enamored with Holly Golightly.

The Cat Named Cat

One of the most memorable characters in the film is Holly’s pet cat, aptly named Cat.

Iconic Opening Sequence

The movie opens with Audrey Hepburn’s character standing outside Tiffany & Co., eating a croissant while gazing at their glamorous window displays.

Holly’s Fashion Statements

Holly Golightly’s fashionable outfits, including the iconic black dress and statement jewelry, have become timeless symbols of style.

The Song “Moon River”

The film’s theme song, “Moon River,” became a massive hit and went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song.

A Complex Love Story

Breakfast at Tiffany’s explores the complexities of love and relationships, delving into themes of identity, loneliness, and self-discovery.

Memorable Supporting Characters

The movie features memorable supporting characters, such as Patricia Neal as Paul’s older lover, and Buddy Ebsen as Holly’s estranged husband.

The Iconic Rain Scene

One of the most famous scenes in the movie is when Paul and Holly share a passionate kiss in the pouring rain.

Cinematic Adaptation Challenges

Truman Capote initially envisioned Marilyn Monroe as Holly Golightly, but Audrey Hepburn was ultimately cast in the role.

Hepburn’s Transformation

Audrey Hepburn’s portrayal of Holly Golightly solidified her as a style icon and propelled her career to new heights.

A Box Office Success

Upon its release, Breakfast at Tiffany’s was a commercial success, grossing over $14 million at the box office.

Impact on Pop Culture

The movie has had a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring fashion trends, music, and countless references in other forms of media.

Iconic Quotes

Breakfast at Tiffany’s introduced several iconic lines, including “I think I’ll wake up now. I’d like to wake up,” and “We belong to nobody, and nobody belongs to us. We don’t even belong to each other.”

Oscar Nominations

The film received five Academy Award nominations, including Best Actress for Audrey Hepburn and Best Adapted Screenplay.

Timeless Appeal

Decades after its release, Breakfast at Tiffany’s continues to captivate audiences with its timeless charm and enduring message.

The Direction of Blake Edwards

Renowned director Blake Edwards brought Truman Capote’s story to life with his unique vision and cinematic flair.

Criticism and Controversy

The film has faced some criticism for its portrayal of Asian characters, particularly Mickey Rooney’s controversial depiction of Mr. Yunioshi.

Adaptation Changes

The film differs from the novella in several ways, including toning down the darker elements of the story and altering the ending.

Iconic Breakfast Scene

The scene where Holly eats her breakfast while window shopping at Tiffany’s has become an iconic symbol of independence and self-indulgence.

Cult Following

Breakfast at Tiffany’s has developed a cult following, with fans around the world hosting themed parties and gatherings inspired by the film.

The Power of Music

The soundtrack of the movie, composed by Henry Mancini, perfectly captures the mood and emotion of the story, adding depth to the characters’ experiences.

Influence on Fashion

The film’s glamorous portrayal of Audrey Hepburn and her stylish wardrobe continues to inspire fashion trends and designers today.

Film Preservation

Breakfast at Tiffany’s was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”

Adaptation Challenges

Translating Truman Capote’s novella to the screen presented several challenges due to the book’s complex narrative structure and multifaceted characters.

Hepburn’s Personal Connection

Audrey Hepburn considered Breakfast at Tiffany’s to be one of her favorite films and felt a deep connection to her character, Holly Golightly.

Box Office Records

Upon its release, Breakfast at Tiffany’s set several box office records, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of the year.

The Impact of Holly Golightly

The character of Holly Golightly has become an enduring symbol of independence, free-spiritedness, and feminine empowerment.

Iconic Poster Art

The movie’s poster featuring Audrey Hepburn in sunglasses and a tiara has become instantly recognizable and iconic in the world of cinema.

A Romantic Comedy Classic

Breakfast at Tiffany’s is often regarded as one of the greatest romantic comedies of all time, known for its wit, charm, and compelling characters.

Behind the Scenes Stories

During filming, Audrey Hepburn reportedly struggled with the rain scene due to her fear of water, but she pushed through and delivered a memorable performance.

Legacy of Audrey Hepburn

Breakfast at Tiffany’s is often cited as one of Audrey Hepburn’s most iconic roles, solidifying her status as a Hollywood legend.

Iconic Hairstyles

The film’s hairstyles, such as Holly’s chic updo and the character’s signature bouffant, have influenced hair trends for decades.

An Enduring Soundtrack

The movie’s soundtrack, featuring Henry Mancini’s compositions, including “Moon River,” continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

A Love Letter to New York

Breakfast at Tiffany’s showcases the beauty and charm of New York City, becoming a love letter to the city that never sleeps.

The Power of Emotion

The film skillfully balances light-hearted comedy with poignant emotional moments, creating a rich and layered viewing experience.

The Transformation of Paul Varjak

Throughout the film, George Peppard’s character undergoes a personal transformation, finding his voice and purpose alongside Holly Golightly.

Iconic Party Scenes

The movie’s vibrant and glamorous party scenes have become synonymous with the glitz and excitement of New York City nightlife.

Holly’s Unconventional Lifestyle

Holly Golightly’s unconventional lifestyle and free-spirited nature challenged societal norms and continues to inspire those seeking to live life on their own terms.

A Bittersweet Ending

The film’s ending strikes a bittersweet note, leaving viewers with a mix of sadness and hope for the characters’ futures.

Directorial Choices

Director Blake Edwards’ creative choices, such as the use of black and white for certain scenes, add a distinct visual style to the film.

Cultural Significance

Breakfast at Tiffany’s has become a cultural touchstone, referenced and celebrated in various forms of media, including television shows, music, and fashion.

A Timeless Classic

With its unforgettable characters, iconic fashion, and enchanting story, Breakfast at Tiffany’s remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences around the world.

Conclusion

Breakfast at Tiffany’s is undoubtedly a cult classic that has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. With its iconic fashion, memorable characters, and timeless storyline, it continues to captivate audiences even after several decades since its release.

The film’s success can be attributed to its visionary director, Blake Edwards, and the unforgettable performance of Audrey Hepburn in the lead role of Holly Golightly. Hepburn’s portrayal brought depth and charm to the character, solidifying her status as a Hollywood legend.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s is not just a romantic comedy but also a social commentary on the complexities of love, identity, and the pursuit of happiness. With its beautiful cinematography and memorable soundtrack, it has become an enduring symbol of glamour and sophistication.

As we celebrate the legacy of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, we are reminded of the power of storytelling and the impact it can have on our lives. This timeless classic will continue to be adored by generations to come, serving as a reminder of the magic that can be found in the silver screen.

FAQs

1. Who directed Breakfast at Tiffany’s?

Breakfast at Tiffany’s was directed by Blake Edwards.

2. When was Breakfast at Tiffany’s released?

The movie was released on October 5, 1961.

3. Who played the lead role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s?

Audrey Hepburn portrayed the iconic character of Holly Golightly.

4. What is the significance of the title?

The title refers to the iconic jewelry store Tiffany & Co., where the main character, Holly Golightly, finds solace and dreams of a glamorous life.

5. Was Breakfast at Tiffany’s based on a book?

Yes, the movie is based on a novella of the same name written by Truman Capote.

6. What is the famous song associated with the movie?

The song “Moon River” performed by Audrey Hepburn became an iconic theme associated with Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

7. Did Breakfast at Tiffany’s receive any awards?

Yes, the film won two Academy Awards for Best Original Score and Best Original Song.

8. Is Breakfast at Tiffany’s considered a romantic comedy?

Yes, the movie is often classified as a romantic comedy, but it also delves into deeper themes such as identity and self-discovery.

9. Are there any notable differences between the book and the movie?

Yes, the adaptation made some changes to the characters and storyline, but both the book and the movie have their own unique charm.

10. Why is Breakfast at Tiffany’s considered a cult classic?

The film’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless themes, memorable characters, and stylish portrayal of 1960s New York City.

If you enjoyed learning about Breakfast at Tiffany's, why not explore more captivating films and iconic actresses? Discover the charm of <romantic comedy> in "It Happened One Night," a beloved classic that set the standard for the genre. For another unforgettable <classic film>, delve into the world of "Butterfield 8," a gripping drama that showcases the talents of its remarkable cast. And no discussion of classic cinema would be complete without celebrating the incomparable <Audrey Hepburn>, whose life and career continue to inspire and enchant audiences around the world.

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