Paris When It Sizzles

The problem with a title like Paris When It Sizzles is that the movie has to sizzle. Sadly, this one doesn't. Fluffy, watchable and inconsequential in equal doses, it never takes full use of the immense talents from both of the leads. Hepburn is positively lovely -- she never could be anything less, even if she tried to be (it's still not one of her great performances). Holden, in contrast, was never meant to do the "screwball comedy" or "zany leading man" types. He was always better in darker, more psychological roles. Here he looks like he's sleepwalking throughout much of the film, too busy boozing it up and leering at Hepburn. The premise is interesting, and, at times, the setups are very amusing, but they never properly come together to make a coherent film. Amusing, but confused. Skip this and go for greater films and performances from both performers. Roman Holiday would do nicely if you're looking for another romantic comedy from Hepburn (less zany, more elegant romance and travelogue), or Sabrina for a mature romantic comedy starring Hepburn and Holden, or Born Yesterday for another romantic comedy from Holden (this one with a political context).