Audrey Hepburn: Photographs 1953 – 1966

Bob Willoughby

Published by Taschen

Hardcover, 11.2 x 14.1 in., 280 pages, £ 44.99

ISBN 978-3-8365-2737-8

Multilingual Edition: English, French, German

By Adrian Smith

Audrey Hepburn is iconic. Her image has perhaps eclipsed her performances in the many movies she starred in before her early retirement to focus on UNICEF. This new collection from Taschen (previously available only in a limited art edition) demonstrates just why this happened. The camera simply loved Audrey Hepburn. These photographs, taken by Hollywood photographer Bob Willoughby, show that whether she was relaxing at home, posing for stills or working on set, she was a radiant, mesmerising presence. After first meeting at Paramount Studios in 1953 to promote Roman Holiday, Willoughby and Hepburn became close friends. The way she was able to relax in his presence clearly comes through in so many of these fabulous photos.

Although the book does serve to reinforce Hepburn's visual impact, it also reminds one that first and foremost she was an actress. Plenty of commentary is provided on the films covered here; Green Mansions, The Children's Hour, Paris When It Sizzles, My Fair Lady and Two For the Road. One fascinating collection of pictures shows how Hepburn developed a close relationship with Ip, a fawn that was to co-star with her in Green Mansions. Ip lived with her for three months before shooting started. Mel Ferrer, Hepburn's husband and director of Green Mansions, commented that Ip treated her like it's mother, and professional animal trainers were amazed at how it followed her around, even going shopping!

Some of the best photos show Audrey off guard, showing her true character rather than posing for a publicity still. She plays with her children, she exercises, in one touching photo she appears to be upset and is being calmed down by Anthony Perkins. This is another beautifully high-quality book from Taschen and any reader will want to spend hours examining the detail in these photos before seeking out all of these movies again. 

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