Audrey Hepburn’s Most Overlooked Performances: 5 Roles You Need to See Now

Audrey Hepburn’s name is synonymous with elegance, grace, and timeless cinematic magic. The iconic image of her in a black gown with a long cigarette holder from Breakfast at Tiffany’s has become an emblem of classic Hollywood glamour. Yet, while many of her roles are legendary, Hepburn’s filmography is much more expansive than the few performances that dominate the public consciousness. Beyond Roman Holiday, Sabrina, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and My Fair Lady, Hepburn delivered some of her most powerful and nuanced work in films that have flown under the radar. Here are five of Audrey Hepburn’s most underrated performances that deserve more recognition.

5. The Children’s Hour (1961)

Directed by William Wyler, The Children’s Hour explores a controversial and sensitive subject matter for its time. When a young girl falsely accuses two teachers, played by Hepburn and Shirley MacLaine, of having a lesbian affair, their lives and careers are destroyed. Hepburn’s portrayal of Karen, who may or may not harbor similar feelings for her colleague Martha (MacLaine), is understated but heartbreaking. Her repressed emotions and quiet resolve create a nuanced performance that lingers long after the film ends. While MacLaine’s role is more emotionally explosive, Hepburn’s quieter performance is just as potent in conveying the destructive power of rumors and the societal stigma around queerness.

4. Wait Until Dark (1967)

Hepburn was known for her romantic comedies and lighthearted roles, but Wait Until Dark is a thrilling departure from her usual fare. Directed by Terence Young, this suspenseful film features Hepburn as a blind woman caught in a deadly game with a gang of criminals after they try to retrieve a doll filled with drugs. Hepburn’s portrayal of a woman forced to confront terrifying danger in the isolation of her apartment is compelling and intense. The film’s atmosphere is suffused with tension, and Hepburn’s gradual realization of the danger she’s in makes for a captivating watch. The movie’s nerve-wracking suspense, paired with one of Hepburn’s most physically demanding roles, makes it one of her most overlooked but brilliant performances.

3. How to Steal a Million (1966)

In How to Steal a Million, Hepburn shines in a charming heist comedy directed by William Wyler. Playing Nicole, the daughter of an art forger, Hepburn teams up with Peter O’Toole’s suave art thief to steal a priceless statue. The chemistry between Hepburn and O’Toole is electric, and her impeccable comic timing provides a delightful contrast to O’Toole’s roguish charm. Hepburn’s ability to blend elegance with humor is a testament to her versatility as an actress. The film’s lighthearted tone and Hepburn’s effortless grace make it a fun, often overlooked gem in her filmography.

2. Two for the Road (1967)

In this unsentimental drama directed by Stanley Donen, Hepburn plays Joanna, a woman in a troubled marriage, opposite Albert Finney as her husband Mark. As they revisit their past while on a road trip through France, Two for the Road explores the complexities of love, infidelity, and the passage of time. Hepburn’s portrayal of a woman struggling with the challenges of her relationship shows a maturity beyond her usual roles, offering a raw and vulnerable performance. Unlike the romantic ingénue she often portrayed, Hepburn’s role in this film is far more grounded and adult, making Two for the Road a standout in her career. The film’s candid approach to marital difficulties and Hepburn’s subtle, yet powerful performance deserve far more attention than they have received.

1. Charade (1963)

Often referred to as “the best Hitchcock movie that Hitchcock never made,” Charade is a witty, fast-paced caper that perfectly showcases Hepburn’s comedic talents alongside Cary Grant’s legendary charm. Hepburn plays Regina Lampert, a woman who finds herself embroiled in a mysterious murder case involving her late husband’s criminal activities. The film is a delightful mix of suspense, romance, and comedy, and Hepburn’s effortless chemistry with Grant elevates it to classic status. Though the film is frequently hailed as one of Hepburn’s best, its reputation has not reached the heights it deserves when compared to other films in her catalog. Hepburn’s sharp comedic timing and her ability to hold her own opposite Grant make this caper a true highlight in her filmography.

Conclusion

Audrey Hepburn’s career was filled with unforgettable roles, but some of her finest work often slips under the radar. From the understated drama of The Children’s Hour to the thrilling suspense of Wait Until Dark, Hepburn demonstrated a depth and versatility that went beyond her more iconic roles. Her performances in How to Steal a Million, Two for the Road, and Charade also showcase a lesser-known side of her talent, one that blends charm, wit, and emotion in equal measure. For those who think they’ve seen all of Hepburn’s greatness, these five underrated performances are essential viewing, reminding us that there is much more to her cinematic legacy than meets the eye.