30 April 2014

Audrey praises Henry Mancini

"Breakfast at Tiffany's" (1961) wouldn't be "Breakfast at Tiffany's" without Henry Mancini's memorable musical score. It is virtually impossible to imagine the film without his melancholy "Moon River", which deservedly won an Oscar. Audrey Hepburn loved the song and reportedly said "Over my dead body!" when a studio executive wanted it removed from the film. In the following letter from Audrey Hepburn to Henry Mancini, Audrey praises Mancini for his music. The letter was written shortly after Audrey saw "Breakfast at Tiffany's" with Mancini's score for the first time.


Source: letters of note

Transcript:

Dear Henry,

I have just seen our picture- BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S- this time with your score.

A movie without music is a little bit like an aeroplane without fuel. However beautifully the job is done, we are still on the ground and in a world of reality. Your music has lifted us all up and sent us soaring. Everything we cannot say with words or show with action you have expressed for us. You have done this with so much imagination, fun and beauty.

You are the hippest of cats- and most sensitive of composers!

Thank you, dear Hank.

(handwritten)
Lots of love
Audrey


2 comments:

  1. Audrey was right! Music elevates movies to a whole new level and Breakfast at Tiffany's score was marvelous!

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  2. She was a class act - Took the time to write a sweet note, and show appreciation. You know that note made is day/week/year.

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