Geneva, Switzerland – Lily Collins is set to portray the iconic Audrey Hepburn in a forthcoming biographical film focusing on the making of the 1961 classic, Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The project, announced on , will delve into the complexities surrounding the production of the beloved film, a landmark moment in cinematic and cultural history.
The film will be based on Sam Wasson’s 2021 New York Times bestseller, Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M.: Audrey Hepburn, Breakfast at Tiffany’s and the Dawn of the Modern Woman. Wasson’s book provides a detailed account of the film’s journey from conception to release, examining the creative tensions, on-set challenges, and the broader cultural impact of both the film and Hepburn herself.
Alena Smith, known for creating the Apple series Dickinson, will write the screenplay. The narrative promises to explore the lives and contributions of key figures involved in the production, including Truman Capote, the author of the original novella, costumer Edith Head, and director Blake Edwards. The film aims to capture the atmosphere of late 1950s America, a period of significant social and cultural change, as Holly Golightly’s character challenged conventional norms.
The production is a collaboration between Imagine Entertainment and Collins’ own production company, Case Study Films. Scott LaStaiti will produce alongside Imagine’s Brian Grazer, Jeb Brody, and Justin Wilkes. Charlie McDowell and Alex Orlovsky will also produce for Case Study Films, with Marc Gilbar serving as executive producer. Sam Wasson and Brandon Millan, representing Felix Farmer Productions, and Michael Shamberg will also hold executive producer roles. Joyce Choi will oversee development for Imagine Entertainment.
Hepburn’s portrayal of Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s cemented her status as a global fashion icon and a defining figure of Hollywood’s Golden Age. The film, nominated for five Academy Awards and winning two – for Best Score and Best Song – was added to the U.S. National Film Registry in 2012, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. Hepburn herself had previously won an Oscar for her role in Roman Holiday and went on to star in other celebrated films such as Sabrina and Funny Face.
The announcement of Collins’ casting has drawn attention to the parallels between her own public image and that of Hepburn. Collins has frequently been noted for her resemblance to the actress, particularly since taking on the role of Emily in the Netflix series Emily in Paris. This pre-existing association is expected to add another layer of interest to her portrayal of Hepburn.
The film’s focus on the making of Breakfast at Tiffany’s offers a unique perspective on a cinematic landmark. Rather than a traditional biographical account of Hepburn’s life, the project promises to explore the collaborative and often fraught process of bringing a complex and controversial story to the screen. The book details the pre-production hurdles, on-set conflicts, and the eventual reception of the film, which became a watershed moment in film, fashion, and broader cultural trends.
The project arrives at a time of renewed interest in classic Hollywood and the stories behind iconic films. The film’s exploration of the creative process and the personalities involved is likely to resonate with audiences interested in the history of cinema and the enduring legacy of Audrey Hepburn. The film is expected to offer insights into the challenges faced by women in the film industry during that era, as well as the evolving social norms that shaped the production and reception of Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Imagine Entertainment, known for its involvement in numerous critically acclaimed and commercially successful films, has a track record of bringing compelling stories to the screen. Their collaboration with Case Study Films and the involvement of a talented creative team suggest a commitment to delivering a nuanced and insightful portrayal of this pivotal moment in film history.
The production team has not yet announced a release date for the film. Further details regarding casting and the filming schedule are expected to be released in the coming months. The project is anticipated to generate significant interest within the film industry and among fans of Audrey Hepburn and Breakfast at Tiffany’s worldwide.
