How to Steal a Million [DVD]

𝑺: 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆'𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒐𝒎. 𝑻𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒐𝒇𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖r 𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒔.𝑵: 𝑨𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒆 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒎𝒆?How to Steal a Million is a 1966 American heist comedy film directed by William Wyler, written by Harry Kurnitz, and starring Audrey Hepburn, Peter O'Toole, Eli Wallach, Hugh Griffith and Charles Boyer.Charles Bonnet (Hugh Griffith) expresses his passion for art by forging masterpieces -- and selling them at a hefty profit. The trouble starts when his reproduction of a prized sculpture winds up in a famous Paris museum. If experts determine that it is inauthentic, Bonnet's reputation will be tarnished. That's why his fetching daughter, Nicole (Audrey Hepburn), hires cat burglar Simon Dermott (Peter O'Toole) to steal the sculpture back before it's too late.On the surface ‘HTSAM’ is a popcorn flick masquerading as one inundated with its own elegance and high-class flair. Underneath it all, however, is an explanation for Wyler’s diversion from nuance and direction rightfully described as to-the-point or on-the-nose. Adapted from a short story entitled 𝑽𝒆𝒏𝒖𝒔 𝑹𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 by George Bradshaw, Wyler avoids editing this source material in a way that could conveniently fill plot holes and instead focuses on grounding material that is blissfully removed from reality. With the exception of the size of the statue being revered and stolen (it is basically life-sized in 𝑽𝒆𝒏𝒖𝒔 𝑹𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈….Not so easily lugged around in person) Bradshaw's work is appropriately and accurately replicated.Given the nature of ‘HTSAM’ plot and vision in the context of its source medium the challenge for Kurnitz becomes embalming characters with identities and development that makes them 1)likable and 2) believably intricate. Nicole – seemingly naïve and innocent – balances intuitive sophistication with a compassionate curiosity. Her partner in crime is equally supplemented with Simon being level-headed, confidently reassured, and highly amiable in spite of his facetious ramblings. Much of what could elaborate on the overarching context of these characters existences like motivations and background are indirectly pondered with their capacity for change remaining questionable without being frustratingly ambiguous; ‘HTSAM’ concludes on an intersection of finality and of obscurity with plenty of room for a sequel without needing one to feel complete or sufficiently finalized.The romance between Nicole and Simon is far from being a surprise, but the development of it is elevated by ‘HTSAM’s handsomely genuine set of leads. Audrey Hepburn and Peter O'Toole are like bread and butter with their jolly banter and misgivings smoothly filling the space between their respective roles. Hepburn’s trademarked pleasantries are seen in moments defined by doe-eyed wonder and playful glares mimicking that of a deer in headlights. Ultimately, and most fortunately, Bradshaw's original writing is far from tightly-knit, but the performances inspired by it are as sharp as a tack.If one needs to be convinced about the enduring nature of ‘HTSAM’ they need look no further then Hepburn’s notorious wardrobe. Completely designed by Robert Givenchy and categorized by at least twelve separate costumes adorned by Hepburn in this feature - her knack for refined and timeless taste is brilliantly displayed and makes for a large assortment of eye candy and flavorful appearances that have yet to be considered outdated. This in conjunction with a reputation for wit and grace, ‘HTSAM’ is a classy and charming immortalization of Hepburn’s presence on screen and her passions in reality.

This is one of my favorite older movies of all times. Definitely a good movie to show those who like Audrey Hepburn or wonder who she is as an actress.Classic Audrey Hepburn movie.

I am a lover of classic films and ran across this little gem on HBO Go that I was trialing. Why haven't I seen this stupendous film before???!!! Now I have loved Audrey Hepburn since my first classic film "A Shot in the Dark" from my film class, but I have only seen Peter O'toole in "Lawrence of Arabia" which I thoroughly enjoyed as well.First and foremost I didn't know that Peter O'toole was so handsome, he really was never on my classic radar, now Cary Grant was instant love. O'toole has one me over though with his charming on screen wit, charm, and leading man ability.Now enters the ever beautiful and glamorous Audrey Hepburn and you have a cocktail for perfection. These two together steal the show. I love the over the top plot of this film, yes it may be unrealistic even for the late 1960's but it doesn't matter, because the comedic timing, and cat/mouse romance is so engaging that is just makes me laugh and smile time and again! The supporting cast is just as engaging, and set in Paris (who doesn't love Paris)! Wonderful actors, Art, great location, Audrey Hepburn's wardrobe....It has it all. And the score is done by none other than THE John Williams! That alone was an unexpected discovery, I will have to hunt down the film score now.I could go more into the story of the characters, but alas I don't like it when people give things away to me, so I wont rob you of the intimate details. Suffice to say......if you are a lover of Hepburn, O'tool, Classic films or just films in general then please do yourself a favor and see this movie. I have added it to my personal collection, as well as my digital collection(I love it so much I wanted to be able to watch it anywhere).I would give this film more stars if I was able too, simply for the fact that I can watch it time and again, and it never gets old, and I still laugh & smile knowing the outcome. Classic film perfection!

I watched this recently with my husband. He had never seen it before, and I haven't watched it in years. I m a big Audrey H fan, and he had recently watched another Peter O movie...so he was interested in watching him in this. ANYWAY, we watched this together and loved it. Such a funny, clean and colorful movie. Why can't they make movies like this anymore? Have all the good writers vanished from the Earth?

Fun movie. Glad I saw it.