Sabrina

In the 1995 romantic drama/comedy Sabrina, director Sidney Pollack brings together a stellar ensemble cast, including Harrison Ford, Julia Ormond, and Greg Kinnear, for a heartwarming modern fairy tale. This captivating film is a remake of the classic 1954 movie of the same name, which was originally based on the play "Sabrina Fair" by Samuel A. Taylor.

Set in the hustling and bustling town of Long Island, New York, the film revolves around Sabrina Fairchild (Julia Ormond). Introverted but exceptionally observant, Sabrina is the daughter of a chauffeur working for the wealthy Larrabee family. She spends her days dreaming from afar, harboring a longstanding infatuation for the family's charming younger son, David (Greg Kinnear). Frequently overlooked and unnoticed, Sabrina remains in the shadows, her feelings for David unreciprocated.

Her life takes a drastic turn when she gets an opportunity to study in Paris, away from the familiarity of the Larrabee family and her unspoken love for David. Over time, living in the city of lights, Sabrina transforms into a confident, sophisticated, and poised woman. When she eventually returns to Long Island, she is hardly recognizable as the shy and meek chauffeur’s daughter, especially to the eyes of the Larrabee brothers.

David, the playboy and lighthearted lesser sibling, is finally struck by Sabrina's charm, much to the chagrin of his elder brother Linus (Harrison Ford). Generally consumed by work and his commitment to keeping the family’s financial empire running smoothly, Linus is an uptight, no-nonsense businessman. Phases of his life have been dictated not by his personal desires but the growth of the Larrabee Corporation. However, David's sudden fascination with Sabrina threatens a multi-million dollar business deal for the family, causing Linus to intervene.

Initially motivated by his business concerns, Linus decides to attract Sabrina's attention away from David. He devisively involves himself with her, attempting to manipulate her affection from one brother to the other. Nevertheless, Linus finds himself caught in a whirlwind of emotions as he starts falling for Sabrina's captivating personality and the genuine charm that had initially captivated his younger brother.

Harrison Ford does justice to the character of Linus, balancing the stark business persona with the underlying gentle soul. Julia Ormond beautifully portrays Sabrina's transformation from a shy, smitten girl into an attractive, self-assured woman. Kinnear does a wonderful job playing the carefree, aimless, and charming David. The chemistry between Ford and Ormond is palpable, while the dynamic within the Larrabee family adds depth to the narrative.

Sabrina is filled with humor, passion, and a touch of magic, captured against an idyllic backdrop that beautifully complements the narrative. The outstanding performances, combined with a smart script and meticulous direction, make this remake a worthwhile adventure even for those familiar with the original version. Sabrina showcases the complexities of love and reminds us that love can be found in the most unexpected places.

Audiences will find themselves embroiled in the emotional journey that Sabrina experiences, sympathizing with her dreams and hopes, and cheering for her transformation. Moreover, viewers may find mounting intrigue in Linus's dual motivations and the subsequent evolution of his character. Sabrina is a timeless movie, offering a blend of romance, humor, and charm that continues to resonate with audiences even years after its release. Whether you’re new to the story or fondly remembering the original, Sabrina is a delightful film that you won't want to miss.