Hepburn is so well-suited for the role of the princess (she even looks like a princess) who flees her stuffy position of royalty in order to have a world wind day on the town with news reporter Gregory Peck that it's hard to imagine anyone else in the role. She makes her excitement at everything she's never been able to experience have so much sincerity. Peck is probably not the best actor to place opposite her (he's a little too old) but he does fine. But it's Hepburn's film. She's that rare sort of actress who immediately makes a film more charming and memorable (like Marilyn Monroe and Maryl Streep). Of course, she's sophisticated, well-spoken, and sweet, but Hepburn is also very funny. The film is filled with moments where her doe-eyed lack of understanding is not only incredibly cute but hysterical as well.
Sure, Roman Holiday is screwy, but it also seems to really believe in the romance underlying its premise. Paired with the city of Rome, taking in the beautiful sights of the city (shot beautifully on location in black and white), the romance has the right setting for its exceedingly improbable premise. The film also benefits from how "un-Hollywood" it so often is. Peck's character is a lot more of a greedy opportunist than we might expect a romantic male lead typically to be. The ending is also is far more grounded and bittersweet than the usual romantic comedy, taking stock of the realities of this spectacular meet cute.
It's a funny, sweet little film. Silly at times, but charming and fun all the same. Ultimately it's hard not to be delighted by it.
Grade: A-
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