Bloodline

An enduring and cherished Hollywood icon, Audrey Hepburn, stars in the gripping drama Bloodline from 1979. Audrey enthralls her audience as Elizabeth Roffe, a bookish yet resilient woman unexpectedly cast into a whirlwind of sinister plots and life-altering decisions. The movie, directed by noted filmmaker Terence Young, brings along a formidable cast, including Ben Gazzara, James Mason, and Romy Schneider who round out a dramatic, opulent, and eerie narrative that is bound to leave viewers holding their breath.

The film capitalizes on the air of suspense and intrigue throughout, throwing viewers into a murky world of extreme wealth, treacherous family dynamics, and devastating secrets. This aura is reinforced over the movie’s two-hour runtime, captivating its audience and holding viewers on the edge of their seats from the very opening credits to its final scene.

In Bloodline, Audrey Hepburn's character, Elizabeth, inherits a pharmaceutical empire following the suspected murder of her father, Sam Roffe. With this new fortune comes a new reality filled with danger and betrayal. The story revolves around Elizabeth unraveling the intricate web of family deceit to solve the mysterious circumstances surrounding her father's death, running the family empire, and trying not to fall victim to a similar fate.

Ben Gazzara plays Rhys William, an ambitious man and Elizabeth's husband. His nuanced performance earns him a spot beside the host of suspicious family members, each with their distinct motives and unique personalities. Gazzara's character adds another layer of mystery to the familial web, leaving viewers questioning whether his allegiance lies with his wife or his ambitions.

James Mason's character, Sir Alec Nichols, intensifies the plot's tension. As the trusted family advisor, he brings a depth of charm, menace, and ambiguity to the story that only someone of his talent and stature could masterfully portray. Nichols provides Elizabeth the much-needed guidance and assistance she needs to navigate her perilous situation while also blurring the lines between friend and foe.

Bloodline proves that a formidable ensemble can indeed elevate an intricate mystery plot. Many of the film's glamorous but enigmatic stars play a family member of the deceased billionaire. Each one, a potential suspect in the murder, their performances add to the film's overall suspense and intrigue.

Beyond the movie's winding narrative, viewers are also treated to a grand tour of Europe with its luxurious backdrops. From the picturesque French Riviera to the snow-capped Swiss Alps, this international thriller treats viewers to an array of cinematic panoramas, making the allure of this world even more tangible, and the stakes even higher.

The pacing is superb, building tension progressively, as it deliberately incorporates suspenseful moments and elements of surprise. It's a considered balance of action and drama, which, coupled with Maurice Jarre's thrilling, pulsating score, amplifies the climactic scenes.

Bloodline integrates elements of noir, and the sophistication and glamour of classic Hollywood films, incorporating them flawlessly into a thrilling, modern narrative. Elegance and style become juxtaposed with danger and deception—an atmospheric contrast that's elegantly depicted in this glittering, steely world of corporate giants and blue-blooded dynasties.

Hepburn's performance, in particular, is a treat for cinephiles. Playing against type and stepping into a role that carries a weight of suspense, danger, and toughness, she impresses as the brilliant, determined woman braving an unknown and perilous future. Though far from the quintessential 'princess' or girl-next-door character that she frequently portrayed, Hepburn flourishes in the deeply nuanced and complex role of Elizabeth Roffe.

Directing with a keen eye for suspense and a deep understanding of character, Terence Young invites viewers to stay on high alert, questioning every move, every motive, and every character. Equally, the movie prompts its audience to continuously reassess their presumptions, keeping them guessing and invested in this dramatic tale.

Whether you're an Audrey Hepburn fan, a devotee of suspense, or a film aficionado, the 1979 movie Bloodline promises a riveting watch. It's a suspenseful thriller marked by solid performances, intriguing characterizations, an intricate plot, and gorgeous visuals. Despite its age, Bloodline presents a timeless message— absolute power can fascinate, corrupt, and even destroy. The film's engrossing narrative and star-studded ensemble ensure it remains an interesting cinematic choice for viewers above all else.