Often called “the best Hitchcock film Hitchcock never made,” Stanley Donen’s stylish romantic thriller offers unexpected twists, cozy ‘60s aesthetics, and the heaven-sent duo of Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn. Q&A to follow.
Returning home from holiday, Regina Lampert (Audrey Hepburn) discovers her apartment has been emptied, her husband Charlie has been murdered, and her life is unraveling. When a CIA agent (Walter Matthau) informs her that her husband had been involved in the theft of $250,000 during WWII, Reggie turns to handsome stranger Peter Joshua (Cary Grant) for help as Charlie’s dangerous ex-associates (James Coburn, George Kennedy, and Ned Glass) close in, looking for their stolen loot. But can Reggie even trust Peter? Charade is a true icon of ‘60s cinema thanks to Hepburn’s dazzling Givenchy wardrobe, Henry Mancini’s vibrant score, including a theme song that was nominated for an Academy Award, and the deliciously playful chemistry between its stars. [113 min; thriller, romance; English and French]
A Q&A on film scoring and Henry Mancini with Larry Groupé (film composer, Jacobs School of Music) and Daniel Bishop (Jacobs School of Music) will follow the screening.
“Few thrillers create as much sheer joy and happiness as Charade, in which Cary Grant spoofs his Alfred Hitchcock persona, Audrey Hepburn exudes her usual magnetic charm, and Paris is as scenic as ever.” — G. Allen Johnson, San Francisco Chronicle
“If you haven't seen Charade, you really need to.” — Chris Nashawaty, Entertainment Weekly
“Sparkles with all the vigor of freshly uncorked champagne.” — Matt Brunson, Creative Loafing
Any film screened at IU Cinema may contain content that viewers find sensitive or upsetting. Visit our Audience Advisories page to learn more.
