Darcey Bussell's Looking for Audrey (2014)

Behind Audrey Hepburn's dazzling image, Darcey Bussell unravels an epic tale of betrayal, courage, heartache and broken dreams. For as long as she can remember Darcey has been fascinated by Audrey Hepburn: style icon, star of Breakfast at Tiffany's, an Oscar winner at 24. Now, Darcey follows in Audrey's footsteps through Holland, London, Rome, Switzerland and Hollywood to find out more. She discovers Audrey started out as a dancer, risked her life in the war and, although adored the world over, was always looking for love.

Overview
"Darcey Bussell's Looking for Audrey" is a 2014 biographical and exploratory documentary directed by Ross MacGibbon. The movie stars internationally acclaimed ballerina, Darcey Bussell, who sets off on a mission to understand and explore the life of her childhood icon, Audrey Hepburn.

A Journey to Understand a Legend
The movie provides Bussell's journey, echoing both fascination and affection for Hepburn. She checks out Hepburn's growth, from her struggling youth, nascent phase experience in London's West End, to ultimately becoming a cinematic legend in Hollywood - the enigmatic and valued Audrey Hepburn. The documentary covers throughout various places substantial to Hepburn's life, including her birthplace in Belgium and the Swiss town where she invested her later years.

Personal Interviews and Insights
As part of her journey, Bussell includes interviews with those who understood Audrey Hepburn, including her child Sean Hepburn Ferrer, offering first-hand accounts that contribute to an understanding of Hepburn's life beyond her cinematic presence. These personal encounters deepen the essence of the film intending to present Hepburn not just as an international icon however also as a lady of strength, philanthropy, and sustaining spirit.

The Influence and Legacy of Audrey Hepburn
The film highlights Audrey Hepburn's impact in the fields of style, acting, and dance. She was, as Bussell suggests, a lot more than a lovely face or a gifted star. She was a lady who parlayed her popularity into meaningful humanitarian work, becoming a UNICEF ambassador. Additionally, Hepburn had a deep connection to dance, having been a skilled ballet dancer, which forms a personal and poignant connection for Bussell. The movie also highlights the large endurance of Hepburn's legacy in pop culture and her continued impact on the world of style and femininity.

Reflection on the Two Stars
Through her expedition of Audrey Hepburn's life, Darcey Bussell all at once reveals aspects of her own profession and life. There is an obvious parallel in between Hepburn and Bussell as they both emerged from a dancing background to attain remarkable strides in their respective professions. Through this movie, Bussell discreetly explores her own identity and profession trajectory against the backdrop of Audrey Hepburn's life.

In conclusion, "Darcey Bussell's Looking for Audrey" offers an intricately woven story that integrates an intimate exploration of Audrey Hepburn's life and tradition with the individual journey of Darcey Bussell. The movie provides a heartfelt homage to a legendary figure by a person who shares her passion for dance and humanitarian works, making it a truly special viewing experience.

Top Cast

  • Darcey Bussell (small)
    Darcey Bussell
    Herself - Presenter
  • Audrey Hepburn (small)
    Audrey Hepburn
    Herself / Various (archive footage)
  • Rino Barillari
    Himself - Photographer
  • Pamela Church Gibson
    Herself - Historian
  • Marian Collier (small)
    Marian Collier
    Herself - Actress
  • Luca Dotti
    Himself
  • Sean H. Ferrer
    Himself
  • Peter Frey
    Himself - Family Friend
  • Miriam Nelson (small)
    Miriam Nelson
    Herself